SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

Transcription

1 OPEN SPACE PLAN SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

2 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Glenn A. Schaum, President Robert Gillies, Vice-President Timothy Lawn Kathleen Lunn Robert C. McGrory Marc Perry Baird Standish OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE Baird Stanish, Chairman Gerald Birkelbach Charles Carabba Diane Drinker Jason Gasper Dan Johnson Michael Sokel Michael Taylor Township Liaison Stephanie Macari County Liaison MANAGER Donald E. Berger, Jr. RECREATION DIRECTOR Charles Carabba Hillcrest Pond, Cover Background Springfield Welcome Sign, Cover Inset

3 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN DECEMBER 2005 This report was partially funded by The Montgomery County Green Fields/Green Towns Program Montgomery County Planning Commission

4 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN

5 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1 1 GREEN FIELDS/GREEN TOWNS PROGRAM 1 DEVELOPING AN OPEN SPACE PLAN 2 PURPOSE OF THIS PLAN 2 THE OLD PLAN VS. THE NEW PLAN 2 RECOMMENDATIONS 2 WORKING WITH OUR NEIGHBORS COMMUNITY PROFILE 3 COMMUNITY CONTEXT 3 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND 5 REGIONAL SETTING 5 EXISTING LAND USE ANALYSIS 5 Residential 5 Commercial/Office 5 Industrial 5 Institutional 5 Parks/Recreation 7 Utilities 7 Agriculture 8 Undeveloped Land 8 Housing Types 8 Conclusion 8 COMMUNITY DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS 8 Population Trends 8 Population Classification 8 Age 10 Income 11 Special Needs Groups 12 Education Level 12 Household Types 13 Employment and Labor 13 Occupations 13 Employment Forecast 13 Major Employer in Municipality 13 Status of Relevant Plans iii

6 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 8 GOALS & OBJECTIVES 17 SPRINGFIELD S VISION 17 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 19 THE 1996 OPEN SPACE AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES PLAN EVALUATION OF GROWTH AREAS 21 POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS 21 SPRINGFIELD S FUTRE GROWTH AREAS EXISTING PROTECTED LAND 25 PERMANENTLY PROTECTED LAND 25 Municipal Open Space 26 Private Open Space 26 TEMPORARILY PROTECTED LAND 26 Act Act Institutional INVENTORY OF POTENTIALLY VULNERABLE RESOURCES 31 GEOLOGY 33 TOPOGRAPHY 33 Steep Slopes 33 Woodlands 34 Soils 35 SURFACE WATERS AND HYDROLOGY 36 Township Watercourses and Waterbodies 36 Floodplain and Stream Corridors 37 Wetlands 37 Watersheds 38 Protected Watercourses 38 Groundwater 38 SCENIC ROADS AND VISTAS 39 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES 39 National Register Sites 40 Other Historic Resources ANALYSIS OF UNPROTECTED RESOURCES 43 COMPOSIT OF VULNERABLE RESOURCES 45 Highest Priority Resources 45 High Priority Resources 45 Priority Areas POTENTIAL OPEN SPACE LINKAGES 49 SHORT-TERM PRIORITIES 49 LONG-TERM PRIORITIES 50 LINKAGE FORMS EVALUATION OF OPEN SPACE NEEDS 51 RECREATION STANDARDS 52 PARK TYPES 52 EXISTING PARKS AND FACILITIES 54 Passive Open Space 54 RECREATIONAL FACILITIES iv

7 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 9 CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 11 APPENDIX A APPENDIX B EVALUATION OF COUNTY AND ABUTTING MUNICIPAL PLANS 57 COMPARISON TO MONTGOMERY COUNTY PLANS 58 RELATION TO PLANS OF ABUTTING MUNICIPALITIES 59 Whitemarsh Township 59 Upper Dublin Township 59 Cheltenham Township 59 City of Philadelphia 60 OPPORTUNITIES FOR REGIONAL OR MULTIMUNICIPAL COOPERATION RECOMMENDATIONS: PROJECTS, PROGRAMS & POLICIES 61 MAXIMIZE PERMANENT PRESERVATION OF REMAINING OS 63 MAXIMIZE OPE SPACE ON EXISTING ABANDONED AND UNDERUTILIZED PROPERTIES 64 PRESERVE NATURAL FEATURES 66 ENHANCE THE TOWNSHIP S NATURAL ENVIRONEMNT 68 CREATE A COORDINATED OPEN SPACE NETWORK 68 MEET RECREATION NEEDS 70 PROTECT SCENIC AND HISTORIC RESOURCES 73 GREEN FIELDS/GREEN TOWNS PROGRAM OPTIONS IMPLEMENTATION 77 BACKGROUND 77 IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX 83 RESPONSIBILITY 83 PRIORITY CATEGORIES 83 PRESERVATION METHODS 85 FUNDING SOURCES 88 CONCLUSION PUBLIC INPUT 89 SUMMARY OF COMMENTS OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 99 OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES v

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9 SPRINGFILED OPEN SPACE PLAN LIST OF FIGURES CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 4 COMMUNITY PROFILE 2 Figure 1 Regional Settings 4 Figure 2 Existing Land Use 5 Figure 3 Existing Land Use Comparison: 1994 and Figure 4 Housing Types 8 Figure 5 Population Classification 9 Figure 6 Age Profile 9 Figure 7 Income Levels (1999 $) 10 Figure 8 Special Needs Groups 10 Figure 9 Education Level 11 Figure 10 Household Types 12 Figure 11 Labor Force by Occupation 13 Figure 12 Employment Forecast 14 Figure 13 Major Employers EVALUATION OF GROWTH AREAS 22 Figure 14 Population Projection 23 Figure 15 Employment Forecast 23 Figure Residential Unit Demand 24 Figure 17 Potential Growth Areas EXISTING PROTECTED LAND 27 Figure 18 Permanently Protected Open Space 28 Figure 19 Distribution of Open Space 29 Figure 20 Temporarily Protected Open Space 30 Figure 21 Protected Open Space vii

10 SPRINGFILED OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 11 INVENTORY OF POTENTIALLY VULNERABLE RESOURCES 31 Figure 22 Geology 33 Figure 23 Topography 34 Figure 24 Soils 36 Figure 25 Hydrology 37 Figure 26 Watersheds 39 Figure 27 Scenic Roads and Vistas 41 Figure 28 Selected Inventory of Historic Resources 42 Figure 29 Historic and Cultural Resources ANALYSIS OF UNPROTECTED RESOURCES 44 Figure 30 Unprotected Resources 46 Figure 31 Priority Vulnerable Resources POTENTIAL OPEN SPACE LINKAGES 48 Figure 32 Existing and Future Trails EVALUATION OF OPEN SPACE NEEDS 52 Figure 33 Minimum Open Space Needs 53 Figure 34 Public Open Space Service Areas 54 Figure 35 Recreational Open Space Categories 55 Figure 36 Recreational Facility Needs RECOMMENDATIONS: OPTIONAL PLAN ELEMENTS 64 Figure 37 Buildings to Consider for Acquisition 65 Figure 38 Proposed Floodplain Restoration 67 Figure 39 Tree Planting Priorities & Environmental Enhancement Projects 69 Figure 40 County Trail Connections 71 Figure 41 Proposed Park and Recreation Improvements 72 Figure 42 Heritage Resource Conservation 74 Figure 43 Proposed Gateways, Street Trees & Plazas 76 Figure 44 Recommendations at a Glance IMPLEMENTATION 78 Figure 45 Implementation Matrix viii

11 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION SPRINGFIELD S 2005 OPEN SPACE PLAN GREEN FIELDS/GREEN TOWNS PROGRAM In 2003, a referendum to fund open space and green infrastructure projects was passed in Montgomery County. Through this program, subsequently adopted by the County, the funding that the voters endorsed is being provided to municipalities, private non-profit conservation organizations and the county to preserve more open space and enhance the livability of existing communities throughout the County. The initial County Open Space program was created At that time, Springfield drafted it s 1996 Open Space and Environmental Resource Protection Plan, which has served as a valuable guide to the Township s open space activities for the past nine years. Under the new program, Springfield is eligible to receive a total of $1,397,301 for open space planning and implementation between April 2004 and April This grant requires matching funds equal to twenty percent of project costs from the township. The County grants come with several conditions. The most important condition is that any land purchased with grant money must be permanently preserved as open space or for active recreation. Another condition is that Springfield must complete and adopt an updated Open Space Plan. This plan must be approved by the County s Open Space Board before grant money can be disbursed. DEVELOPING AN OPEN SPACE PLAN 1 In the past, many communities assumed that open space was land that had simply not been developed yet, because no one had filed a subdivision plan for it. Communities that planned for open space primarily thought about preserving land for parks. And these parks were often viewed as a community amenity, an extra, even a frill. Likewise, until recent years, most open space preservation efforts were site-specific in their orientation: develop a park here, protect a natural area there. Today, however, a growing number of communities are recognizing not just that green space is a basic community necessity, but that it should be planned and developed as an integrated system.* This plan represents Springfield s effort to create such a system. * McMahon, Edward T. Green Infrastructure. Planning Commissioners Journal. Number 37, Winter 2000, p.4.

12 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN INTRODUCTION In May 2004, the Springfield Open Space Committee was formed according to the requirements of the Green Fields/Green Towns Program. Members represented the Springfield Planning Commission, The Shade Tree Commission, the Park and Recreation Board, the Board of Commissioners, and several neighborhood representatives with interest in and knowledge of open space issues. Liaisons from the Township as well as the Montgomery County Planning Commission also served on the committee. The Open Space Committee held public meetings on a monthly basis from June 2004 through May 2005 to develop this plan. The committee presented a draft version of this plan to the Board of Commissioners during a regularly scheduled meeting, as well as to the community during a public hearing. Comments were solicited from the public and incorporated into the final document. The 2005 Open Space Plan was reviewed and approved by the County Open Space Board prior to adoption by the Township. This assures that some of the plan s recommendations are eligible for funding through the Green Fields/Green Towns program (this does not, however, guarantee that any specific project will receive funding). In addition to County Open Space grants, grants from other agencies will be sought to implement many of the recommendations in this plan. Upon completion of this plan, Springfield Township will embark on implementing the recommendations listed in Chapter 10 by writing specific project proposals and applying to various organizations and agencies for grants. The Open Space Committee made every effort to consider all aspects of open space planning relevant to the Township. However, in the event that a project, program or policy was overlooked, the plan may be amended by following the procedure outlined in section 302 (a) of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. PURPOSE OF THIS PLAN This plan was developed for two major purposes. First, as previously stated, it is a requirement that must be filled in order to be eligible to apply for funding through the Green Fields/Green Towns program. It was also developed to serve as a guide to the Township in acquiring new open space, forging connections through existing open space via an enhanced trail network, and developing programs and policies to preserve and maintain active and passive open space in the Township. THE OLD PLAN VS. THE NEW PLAN Springfield s previous open space was vital in guiding the Township s open space development. That plan mainly emphasized land acquisition and trail development. As a result of the plan, several projects were implemented, including the acquisition of The Black Horse Inn and Laurel Beech Park, the development of the AAA zoning district, acquisition of a trail easement on Northwest Avenue, utilization of a $48,997 tree-planting grant, and establishment of a private conservation easement on the Wharton-Sinkler Tract. In addition to acquisition and trail development, the new plan emphasizes revitalization of Green Infrastructure such as park improvements, enhanced tree-planting activities, and gateway installation. It also focuses on Heritage Resource Conservation, County Trail Connections, and Floodplain Restoration. These items were not previously eligible for funding through County Open Space grants, and are a new feature of the 2005 Green Fields/Green Towns Program. RECOMMENDATIONS The Open Space Committee has included over eighty recommendations for open space projects, programs and policies. Each recommendation is described in detail in Chapter 10. It is also listed along with its priority level, the party responsible for implementation, and potential funding sources in the implementation matrix in Chapter 11. WORKING WITH OUR NEIGHBORS Springfield Township has been working with its neighbors, including Whitemarsh Township, Upper Dublin Township, Cheltenham Township, and the City of Philadelphia, to develop this open space plan. It will continue to work with them to implement the recommendations of this plan and to work on planning efforts in the future. 2

13 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE The Community Profile Chapter of the Springfield Township Open Space Plan is designed to provide residents, planners and officials the necessary background information to make well-informed decisions regarding the future preservation of natural and cultural resources within their community. It consists of three parts: 1) the Community Context section, which examines the community's historical background and regional setting, 2) the Existing Land Use Analysis, which details the use of each property in the Township, and 3) the Community Demographic Analysis, a study of the demographic trends in Springfield Township. COMMUNITY CONTEXT HISTORICAL BACKGROUND Adapted from the Springfield Township Historical Society s Springfield Township, Montgomery County, Springfield Township, an area rich in historical significance, has contributed greatly to the growth of Montgomery County and the Philadelphia region. Established circa 1681, the land was given as a gift by William Penn to his wife, Gulielma Maria Springett Penn, and was surveyed as Penn s Manor of Springfield. Springfield s early development and economic growth are directly related to its location. Situated northwest of Philadelphia, it was an area rich in mineral deposits with fertile land for agriculture. These resources led to its development as a farming community and as a provider of raw materials to early industries in lime burning and iron ore mining. Many of the early settlers and founders of the area built homes and carved out farms that still exist today. Springfield s location also made it a way station for the large numbers of travelers and settlers moving along the major roads in and out of Philadelphia. Germantown Pike, Bethlehem Pike and Ridge Pike 3

14 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 1 Regional Settings 4

15 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 were major arteries out of Philadelphia in Colonial times and remain so today. The many rivers and other tributaries of the Schuylkill River provided waterpower for numerous paper and flour mills. Wissahickon Creek, Sandy Run, Sunnybrook Run, and Paper Mill Run were but a few. Although many of these waterways have been reduced to minor streams or have vanished due to urban development, the remains of some of the mills are silent reminders of their contribution to the early economic growth of Springfield. In the late 1800s, the emergence of railroads and the rail transit system promoted rapid development of local industries. In addition, Springfield Township became more accessible to people living in Philadelphia. Its scenic beauty and countryside attracted wealthy Philadelphians who established summer homes and country estates. After World War II, Springfield Township experienced rapid growth in population and residential development, as returning GIs and their families looked to the good life of suburban living. Between 1945 and 1970, much of the current community infrastructure and residential development was built. Today, only the vestiges of many of the original farms, great estates, early industries, the amusement park, and the trolleys remain. But each of these in its own way helped shape the township, and the people who live here, in to the wonderful community that Springfield is today. REGIONAL SETTING Springfield Township is a 6.2 square mile, flagshaped community located in eastern Montgomery County, surrounded in the county by the Townships of Cheltenham, Abington, Upper Dublin, and Whitemarsh, and the neighborhoods of Mount Airy and Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia, as indicated in Figure 1. Its regional location places it close to Center City Philadelphia and several major employment centers in Montgomery County, such as Fort Washington, Willow Grove, Plymouth Meeting, and King of Prussia. Convenient access to these and other areas is made possible by several major roads, including the Fort Washington Expressway (PA 309), which extends northward through the North Penn area and into Bucks County and southward to the City; PA Route 73 (Church Road), which runs the entire length of the county from the city to Douglass Township; Bethlehem Pike, which also connects the Township with the city (Chestnut Hill) and the North Penn area; and Germantown Pike, which runs east-west between the city and Collegeville Borough. In addition, SEPTA operates five bus routes and the R-5 commuter rail line. Major natural features in the Township include the Wissahickon Creek and surrounding woodlands located in the panhandle area (a section of the Township that remains largely undeveloped and includes part of the Morris Arboretum site). The area also lies within the regionally important open space and recreation corridor comprised of Andorra Park (part of Fairmount Park in Philadelphia), the Wissahickon Trail, and Fort Washington State Park (in Whitemarsh Township). EXISTING LAND USE ANALYSIS The Existing Land Use Analysis is the second part of the Community Profile Chapter for the Springfield Township Open Space Preservation Plan. This analysis focuses on the current land uses within the municipality, enabling a more in-depth focus of municipal land use patterns. In addition to the Existing Land Use Map (Figure 2), Figure 3 details the acreage of each category and the percent change from 1993 to The assigned land use categories are derived from board of assessment parcel data. These numbers are useful in understanding changes in land use patterns and help to identify potential open space and/or recreational needs. RESIDENTIAL One of the earliest suburban communities to emerge surrounding Philadelphia, Springfield's basic development pattern and character as a residential suburb is well established. Although a full range of other uses has developed over time, the Township remains largely a bedroom community. This is evident in the existing land use data shown in Figure 3. This figure shows that nearly 60% of Springfield s land is used for residential purposes. 5

16 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 2 Existing Land Use MCPC Montgomery County Planning Commission Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. 6

17 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 3 Existing Land Use Comparison: 1993 and 2004 Land Use % Change Acres % Total Acres % Total Residential 2, % 2, % -2.9% Commercial/Office % % -6.8% Industrial % % -32.1% Institutional % % -24.2% Parks/Recreation/OS % % 15.3% Utilities % % 10.0% Agriculture 0 0.0% % N/A Water 0 0.0% 0 0.0% N/A Total Developed 3, % 3, % -2.1% Undeveloped % % -2.4% Total Acreage* 3, % 3, % -2.1% 4.8% Residential 0.0% 3.0% 1.4% 13.5% Commercial/Office Industrial Institutional Parks/Recreation/OS 13.4% 1.5% 3.2% 59.2% Utilities Agriculture Water Undeveloped Source: Montgomery County Planning Commission Land Use Maps *Discrepancies due to digitization of parcel information COMMERCIAL/OFFICE Commercial and office uses comprise about 3% of the township. Centers of commerce include Bethlehem Pike, the Oreland Commercial District, and a smaller commercial strip along Willow Grove Avenue in Wyndmoor. INDUSTRIAL Springfield Township supports a very small number of Industrial uses, such as small manufacturing and automobile maintenance. Several of the parcels designated industrial are not currently in use. Industrial uses comprise only 1.5% of the township s area. 7

18 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 INSTITUTIONAL Institutional uses comprise about 13% of the township. Such uses include elementary, middle and senior high schools as well as the Morris Arboretum, Carson Valley School, government facilities, and churches. PARKS/RECREATION Nearly 14% of the township consists of parks and recreational activity areas. This category includes the Sandy Run, North Hills, Flourtown, and Whitemarsh Valley Country Clubs, as well as community parks, ball fields, and playgrounds. UTILITIES Utilities comprise about 1.4% of the township. This category includes substations, rail corridors, and some power easements. AGRICULTURE Approximately 3% of the township is designated as agricultural land. This includes the portion of the Dixon Farm that lies within the township, the Boorse tract, Biddle Woods, and portions of the Tecce tract. UNDEVELOPED LAND Springfield Township has a small amount of land considered to be undeveloped (approximately 184 acres), including the Karr tract, portions of the Tecce tract, the Piszek tract, several utility corridors, and a number of scattered sites. HOUSING TYPES Figure 4 shows a breakdown of the residential land use category by housing types. Although there is a predominance of single-family detached dwellings, a range of housing types is available and the overall housing stock has become more diversified in recent years with the addition of more attached units (townhouses) and apartments, particularly those in larger multi-unit buildings. CONCLUSION Since the last Open Space plan for the township was completed in 1993, Springfield has not changed much from a land use perspective. The most significant changes have been the reduction of about 32% in land categorized as industrial, a 26% reduction in land classified as institutional, and a 10% reduction in land devoted to utilities (both small categories to begin with). This is mainly due to development or reclassification of such parcels. The amount of land devoted to parks and recreation has increased by approximately 17.5% due to the acquisition by the township of Sandy Run Park, Laurel Beech Park, Hillcrest Pond, Mermaid Park, and Puddleducks School, as well as the private protection of a portion of the Girl Scouts of Philadelphia property and the Wharton-Sinkler Property. COMMUNITY DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS The Community Demographic Analysis consists of information relating to Springfield s population, housing, and economics. With few exceptions, the source of the information is the decennial U.S. Census and other reports of the Census Bureau. Demographic characteristics provide insight when planning for open space preservation and recreational development. They can assist in determining not only how much land should be preserved, but also where. Additionally, this information can further assist a municipality in determining what type of recreational facilities, if any, should be placed in the preserved land. POPULATION TRENDS The rate of municipal population change (relative population increase or decrease) is an important measure of the magnitude of population change that has occurred over time. Figure 5 shows population trends in the Township. Between 1990 and 2000, the Township experienced a small population decline of about 79 people. This was a continuation of a downward trend that started after the 1980 census, when the population total peaked at 20,344 people. 8

19 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 4 Housing Types % Change Housing Types Number % Total Number % Total Single-Family Detached 5, % 5, % 1.2% Single-Family Attached % % 18.0% Multifamily (2-4 Units) % % 6.9% Multifamily (5 or More Units) % % 97.5% Mobile Home/Trailer/Other % % -64.9% Total Housing Units 7, % 7, % 6.1% Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990, % 80% 70% 60% 78.8% 75.2% 50% 40% % 20% 10.4% 8.2% 9.3% 8.1% 6.1% 10% 3.3% 0.5% 0.2% 0% Single-Family Detached Single-Family Attached Multifamily (2-4 Units) Multifamily (5 or More Units) Mobile Home/Trailer/Other Figure 5 Population Classification Population Type % Change Number % Total Number % Total 1980 to 1990 Household Population 18, % 18, % 0.1% Group Quarters Population 1, % 1, % -6.5% Total Population 19, % 19, % -0.4% Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990,

20 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) serves as the region s metropolitan planning organization (MPO). Among other reports, it provides population and employment forecasts through the year These projections will be addressed in further detail in Chapter 3. According to these reports, during the next 20 years the population of Springfield Township is projected to continue declining, but at relatively low rates. In fact, if projections hold true, the population would basically stabilize around 19,320 people. In general, projections are based on several factors, including past levels of development, recently proposed development, proximity to employment centers, available land, and public facilities (particularly sewers). POPULATION CLASSIFICATION Population classification refers to those segments of the population either in households or in group quarters (institutions). Figure 5 shows that more than 93 percent of the Township s population continues to be in households. Between 1990 and 2000 the proportion of residents in group quarters decreased to less than 7 percent. Figure 6 Age Profile Age Profile %Change Number % Total Number % Total , % 1, % -7.3% , % 3, % 12.2% , % % -22.1% , % 2, % -17.9% , % 2, % 1.4% , % 2, % 51.1% , % 1, % -15.3% , % 1, % -28.1% 75+ 2, % 2, % 14.7% Total 19, % 19, % -0.4% Median Age Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990, Female 2000 Male Age Groups

21 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 7 Income Levels (1999 $) Income % Change Per Capita $29,755 $32, % Median Household $65,924 $67, % Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990, Figure 8 Special Needs Groups Special Needs Groups % Change Number % Total Number % Total Persons with Disabilities 1, % N/A Persons with Mobility and Self Care Limitations % N/A Over 65 Years of Age 4, % 4, % -6.9% Under 18 Years of Age 3, % 4, % 6.5% Income Below Poverty Level % % 0.6% Total Population 19,612 19, % Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990, AGE A community s age profile over time can be an important measure of growth and change. Among other things, shifts in the distribution among age groups can have significant impacts on the provision of social services, housing, school enrollments, park and recreation needs, and the labor force. Figure 6 summarizes changes in the Township s age profile from 1990 to It shows that the fastest growing age groups were middle-aged adults (45-55), the elderly (75 and over), and school-aged children (5-17). Negative growth was seen among young adults (18-35) and older adults (55-74). In the long term, since families with children and the elderly make up the bulk of the population, housing (demand for smaller units), transportation (such as para-transit), and recreation needs may be affected. INCOME Figure 7 shows changes in per capita and household incomes for 1989 and 1999 (in 1999 dollars). Among other factors, changes in income reflect the state of the economy overall (recession or growth) and social changes such as the maturation of the baby boom generation (an expanded labor force). Per capita income is a per person average computed for every man, woman, and child in a given area. Per capita income also accounts for persons living alone, a growing segment of the population that is excluded from family income tabulations. As the percentage of the population earning income has increased, so has the per person average. In Springfield, per capita income grew by nearly 10 percent between 1989 and Median household income refers to the income of the primary householder and incomes from all other person over the age of 15 in the home, regardless of their relationship to the householder. Because households of unrelated individuals can be a fairly large proportion of all households, this measure may be a better indicator of the typical income for an area than the family income measure. Also, since many households consist of only one person, this measure is usually lower than median family incomes. Springfield s median household income grew slightly by 2 percent to over $67,

22 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 9 Education Level Education Level % Change Number % Total Number % Total Less than 9th grade % % -53.7% 9th through 12th grade, no diploma % % 9.5% High school graduate (includes equivalency) % % -13.0% Some college, no degree % % -4.1% Associate degree % % -6.8% Bachelor's degree % % 11.9% Gradute or Professional degree % % 16.4% Total Population 25 Years and Over % % -1.0% Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990, Figure 10 Household Types % Change Household Types 1990 to Number % Total Number % Total 2000 Married Couples with Children % % -1.9% Married Couples with No Children % % -7.4% Single Parent % % 33.6% Other Family % % -3.6% 1 Person Non-Family Households % % 28.3% 2+ Person Non-Family Household % % 50.2% Total No. of Households 7, % % 5.5% Average People per Household % Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, 1990, SPECIAL NEEDS GROUPS Certain groups within Springfield Township have special needs that should be considered in determining how much open space is needed, the type of open space that is needed, and the specific design of the open space development. In particular, the very young, the very old, those with incomes below the poverty level, and people with disabilities have special needs that will affect the need for and development of open space. Because definitions of persons with disabilities have changed between the 1990 and 2000 censuses, a direct comparison for these groups could not be made. However, in 2000 approximately 7.7 percent of Springfield s population between the ages of 16 and 64 had some type of disability. Over the past decade, the number of people over age 65 has decreased by nearly 7 percent, while the number of people under age 18 has increased by 6.5 percent. The number of people with incomes below poverty level has remained about the same (see Figure 8). EDUCATION LEVEL Residents of Springfield Township tend to be fairly well-educated (Figure 9). Almost 19 percent of those over age 25 have graduate or professional degrees, while over a quarter have earned bachelor s degrees. Since 1990, the number of people 12

23 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 possessing less than a 9th grade education has dropped by almost 54 percent. HOUSEHOLD TYPES A household profile is defined by the Census Bureau as a person or persons occupying a single housing unit. A household can be broken down into two categories. A family household is two or more related persons living in a single housing unit, and a non-family household is occupied by a single person or a group of unrelated persons. Nationally, as well as locally, households are changing. There has been an overall increase in non-family and single person s households since the 1970 s. Fragmentation of the family unit through divorce, death of a spouse, or children leaving home to form their own households has contributed to an increase in the number of households and a decrease in the size of households. For example, Figure 10 shows that Single Parent Households in Springfield have increased by nearly 34 percent between 1990 and Springfield has also seen one-person households increase by 28 percent, and households of two or more non-family members increase by over 50 percent, comprising over one quarter of all households. The traditional household of married couples with children account for fewer than one in four households in the Township. The average household size is the number of persons in households divided by the number of occupied housing units. This too has seen a na- Figure 11 Labor Force by Occupation Occupation 2000 Number % Total Management % Professional % Sales % Clerical/Office % Construction % Production/Transportation % Farming % Services % Total % Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Census of Population and Housing, tional decline as households continue to diversify. Springfield has seen the average household size decrease from 2.57 people in 1990 to 2.44 in 2000 a decrease of over 5 percent. EMPLOYMENT AND LABOR As used here, employment figures refer to the number of workers in a given area, and can serve a variety of purposes. As one aspect of the economy, they serve to inform the public of current and anticipated future economic conditions and may serve as decision-making input for current and potential employers and investors in the region. Because an area's growth and activity is related to its economy, employment data can also be tied to land use and transportation planning. In recent years, Montgomery County has experienced a significant change as it has gone from being principally a bedroom suburb for Philadelphia commuters to an area that is a major source of jobs, although Springfield Township remains largely a bedroom community. The county's central location in the region and its major road network that permits direct access from surrounding counties are major reasons for this transformation. Evidence of this is found in the office, industrial, and commercial development in Fort Washington, Plymouth Meeting, King of Prussia, and Willow Grove areas easily accessible from Springfield. OCCUPATIONS The types of occupations held by residents in 1990 and 2000 are shown in Figure 11. The wide range of occupations listed have historically been classified as being white collar (managerial), blue collar (operative), or other (farm workers). Although this has generally been a useful distinction in terms of income, educational requirements, etc., the lines of distinction have become less marked as the nation s economy has moved from being industrially based to information and service based. This change is evident nationally with the proportion of the U.S. labor force in white collar jobs increasing from 37 percent in 1950 to 60 percent in In Springfield Township, nearly 80 percent of jobs were white collar positions in Due to this shift, the census has implemented a new system for compiling labor force statistics, 13

24 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 Figure 15 Employment Forecast Year Total Employment Years % Change % 2000* % 2005* % 2010* % 2015* * * 7300 *Source: DVRPC Forecasts 8,200 8,000 7,800 7,600 7,400 7,200 7,000 6, * 2005* 2010* 2015* 2020* 2025* Figure 13 Major Employers Employer Industry Employees 1 School District of Springfield Township Education United States Dept.of Agriculture Government Commissioners of Springfield Township Government Inst. For the Achievement of Human Potential Research Carson Valley School Education LaSalle College High School Education Acme Markets #7723 Retail 80 8 Mount St. Joseph's Academy Education 67 9 Rest Haven Nursing Center Health Care North Hills Country Club Recreation 54 14

25 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 making it difficult to draw a comparison between categories from 1990 and EMPLOYMENT FORECAST As with population, the DVRPC provides employment forecasts for the area. Employment is projected to shrink from approximately 7850 jobs in 2000 to 7300 jobs in 2025, representing an overall decline of about 7 percent over 25 years (see Figure 12). MAJOR EMPLOYERS IN MUNICIPALITY According to the Keystone Tax Bureau, Inc. s records based on first and second quarter 2004 Earned Income Tax remittals, Springfield s top ten employers include the industries of education, government, research, retail, health care, and recreation (see Figure 13). Combined, these employers provide 1,121 jobs within the Township. The largest among these is the School District of Springfield Township, while the United States Department of Agriculture s Research facility on Mermaid Lane employs the second largest number of people. STATUS OF RELEVANT PLANS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The primary existing planning document for the Township is its 1998 Comprehensive Plan, updated from the original 1968 version. The 1998 plan is based on 1990 census data and analyzes demographics, housing, transportation, community facilities, and existing and potential land uses. Unlike a plan for a less developed community, a plan for a developed community like Springfield is less concerned with shaping future growth and development through comprehensive land use decisions than it is with maintaining and improving upon existing conditions. OPEN SPACE AND EVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE PROTECTION PLAN Prior to the update of the comprehensive plan, the first Open Space and Environmental Resource Protection Plan was developed in accordance with the Montgomery County Open Space Preservation Program Guidelines and adopted in For the past ten years it has served as a guide for Township open space preservation activities, enabling the Township to use its open space acquisition funding allocation included in the County Program. This plan serves as the basis for this 2004 update, and contains many of the same sections. Among the key recommendations from this plan were: Provide an open space linkage between Township open space in Flourtown and Fairmount Park in the panhandle. Extend open space along the Wissahickon Creek to fill in a missing link in the existing greenway. Pursue acquisition and non-acquisition preservation methods for many of the target open space areas. Coordinate with land conservancy groups, the county, and other municipalities to implement key inter-municipal and regional open space opportunities. As part of the update of this plan, these and other recommendations were reviewed in detail as part of an audit process. SANDY RUN CREEK WATERSHED CONSERVATION PLAN Another existing planning document is the Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan of 2001, which was a joint effort among the Montgomery County Planning Commission and Abington, Springfield, Upper Dublin, and Whitemarsh Townships. This plan provides recommendations regarding storm water management, open space preservation, riparian buffers, trail design, and land management coordination. FLOURTOWN-ERDENHEIM VISION PLAN Prepared by the Flourtown-Erdenheim Enhancement Association (FEEA), The Flourtown- Erdenheim Vision Plan (January 2004) outlines economic development initiatives, transportation and parking strategies, streetscape enhancement strategies (particularly street trees), and architectural design guidelines for the Bethlehem Pike corridor between Gordon Lane and Valley Green Road. Public plazas, open space, and quality public environments in general are some of the main foci of this plan. 15

26 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 1 16

27 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 2 GOALS & OBJECTIVES SPRINGFIELD S VISION Open Space and recreation facilities are very important to the residents of Springfield Township. A number of these types of facilities already exist in the Township, and Springfield s development pattern makes it unlikely that large amounts of new land will become available for open space and recreation purposes. Therefore Springfield envisions preserving remaining open space, enhancing its existing facilities and linking these all together via trails to create a comprehensive and well-functioning open space system. The goals and objectives outlined below have been designed to help the Township achieve this vision. Action items related to these goals and objectives will be created throughout the open space planning process and are included in the recommendations and implementation chapters of this plan. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES GOAL 1: IDENTIFY POTENTIAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES AND PRIORITIES OBJECTIVES: A. In addition to the funding available through the Open Space program, seek out a broad range of outside funding sources to implement recommendations. GOAL 2: MAXIMIZE PERMANENT PRESERVATION OF REMAINING OPEN SPACE OBJECTIVES: A. Continue to encourage permanent preservation of open space on large institutional properties such as the Carson Valley School, Mount St. Joseph s Academy and Erdenheim Farm sites. 17

28 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 B. Keep Flourtown Country Club in open space use and encourage other golf courses to remain as open space. C. Continue to encourage creative site design that preserves contiguous open space. D. Keep low-intensity and/or clustered uses throughout much of the panhandle area. E. Assist residents in permanently preserving open space on privately-owned property. F. Create small green oases in the most intensely developed areas to buffer incompatible land uses and provide visual relief. GOAL 3: MAXIMIZE OPEN SPACE ON EXISTING ABANDONED AND UNDERTILIZED PROPERTIES OBJECTIVES: A. Seek to acquire blighted buildings and abandoned properties (or portions thereof) that cannot be used for other purposes to add to the open space inventory. GOAL 4: PRESERVE NATURAL FEATURES OBJECTIVES: A. Preserve aquatic features wherever possible. B. Preserve woodlands, particularly those in the panhandle area, and existing tree canopy. C. Encourage creative site design that limits disturbance to natural features. D. Improve stormwater management standards. GOAL 5: ENHANCE THE TOWN- SHIP S NATURAL ENVIRONMENT OBJECTIVES: A. Require adequate buffering and landscaping throughout the township as part of the land development process. B. Reactivate street tree planting programs. C. Develop new shade tree planting program for public areas. D. Encourage private landscaping and beautification efforts. E. Create gateways to enhance the entrances to the township. GOAL 6: CREATE A COORDINATED OPEN SPACE NETWORK OBJECTIVES: A. Connect Township open space wherever practical. B. Establish open space linkages with neighboring communities and the county. C. Coordinate groups involved in Open Space planning and implementation. GOAL 7: MEET RECREATION NEEDS OBJECTIVES: A. Provide additional neighborhood-level open space. B. Provide a network of pedestrian and bicycle corridors and linkages within and between greenways and open space parcels. C. Provide additional recreation facilities and complete other planned improvements for existing parks. D. Invite residents to identify long term needs and bring them to the township s attention. E. Support and coordinate with the developing Park and Recreation plan. GOAL 8: PROTECT SCENIC AND HISTORIC RESOURCES OBJECTIVES: A. Preserve views of natural features and open space areas. B. Preserve corridors of mature, healthy street trees. C. Encourage creative development that preserves views and historic structures. GOAL 9: SUPPORT THE SANDY RUN CREEK WATERSHED CONSERVA- TION PLAN AND OTHER EXISTING AND FUTURE WATERSHED PLANS. OBJECTIVES: A. Implement the action items identified in these plans whenever possible. 18

29 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 THE 1996 OPEN SPACE AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE PLAN Springfield Township adopted an Open Space and Environmental Resource Protection Plan in At that time a series of goals and objectives was developed to address issues regarding the preservation of open space and the protection of environmental resources. As a part of the update process required by the Montgomery County Open Space Program, Springfield has evaluated its previous goals and objectives to address whether the goals are still valid and to evaluate why some of the last plan's recommendations were not implemented. Below are listed the previous recommendations that have been acted upon with accompanying explanations of their status and proposed future action where applicable, followed by those recommendations that have not yet been implemented. COMPLETED PROJECTS Project: Blackhorse Inn fee-simple purchase Status: The building has been donated to the Township. The donation includes an easement across the adjacent land for future trail connections to Bysher Field and Bethlehem Pike. Future Action: The inn could serve as a staging area for a trail head; The easement will become a paved trail. Project: Morris Arboretum trail easement Status: A trail along Northwest Avenue is under construction. Project: Revise cluster development zoning regulations. Status: The AAA zoning district was created to protect open space. Project: Revise floodplain regulations and develop riparian protection standards. Status: A riparian buffer ordinance has been discussed for the past five years. The prototype zoning overlay proved too restrictive for the community. The Board of Commissioners has asked the Planning Commission to rework the proposed ordinance to address the community s concerns. In addition, NPDES Phase II requirements have been adopted and put into effect. Project: Implement shade tree planting program. Status: A shade tree commission was established and has been active. A tree-planting grant of $48,997 was utilized. Project: Coordinate preservation with regional efforts. Status: The Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan has been approved. Project: Develop zoning regulations that help encourage historic preservation. Status: A historic demolition ordinance is being considered by the Board of Commissioners. Explanation: Historic preservation awareness is still in the early stages. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing additional historic preservation options. Project: Wharton-Sinkler Tract Status: A private conservation easement was established. Project: Robertson/Ferry Tract fee simple purchase The former Robertson/Ferry tract, now known as Laurel Beech Park, was acquired in Status: As a result of a subdivision of a larger 19

30 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 parcel into three lots, the township was able to acquire this 6.36 acre parcel utilizing a grant of $495,000 in It is now known as Laurel Beech Park. The remaining two parcels have been developed with residential and light industrial uses. REMAINING RECOMMENDATIONS The following recommendations have not been acted upon to date. An explanation and/or description of possible future action is provided for each project: Project: Karr Tract fee simple purchase Explanation: The land is currently too expensive and is involved in a court stipulation that makes purchase difficult at this time. Future Action: When a land development plan is submitted, a recreation area could be negotiated. Project: Carson Valley School trail easement Explanation: The idea of a trail has been presented. The township is awaiting internal organization of Carson. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Dixon Tract trail easement Explanation: Government and local groups are preparing ideas to present to Mr. Dixon. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Mt. Saint Joseph s Academy trail easement Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Develop an open space overlay zoning district. Explanation: The intent of this recommendation was to protect properties of over 10 acres, which may have been sufficiently accomplished through the AAA zoning district. Future Action: The township plans to uphold the purpose of this district. Project: Strengthen woodlands protection standards. Future Action: The Subdivision & Land Development ordinance could be strengthened in this regard. Project: Hold land preservation workshop for target OS landowners & residents. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: PECO Tract fee simple purchase Explanation: There are asbestos and contamination issues at the Oreland substation on Roesch Avenue. PECO periodically abandons and reuses this site. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: PECO Corridor trail easement Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Railroad Corridor fee simple purchase (adjacent to Flourtown Country Club) Explanation: Some sections are no longer available. Future Action: The County is currently working on this project. Laurel Beech Park Recreation Facility 20

31 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 2 GOALS & OBJECTIVES SPRINGFIELD S VISION Open Space and recreation facilities are very important to the residents of Springfield Township. A number of these types of facilities already exist in the Township, and Springfield s development pattern makes it unlikely that large amounts of new land will become available for open space and recreation purposes. Therefore Springfield envisions preserving remaining open space, enhancing its existing facilities and linking these all together via trails to create a comprehensive and well-functioning open space system. The goals and objectives outlined below have been designed to help the Township achieve this vision. Action items related to these goals and objectives will be created throughout the open space planning process and are included in the recommendations and implementation chapters of this plan. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES GOAL 1: IDENTIFY POTENTIAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES AND PRIORITIES OBJECTIVES: A. In addition to the funding available through the Open Space program, seek out a broad range of outside funding sources to implement recommendations. GOAL 2: MAXIMIZE PERMANENT PRESERVATION OF REMAINING OPEN SPACE OBJECTIVES: A. Continue to encourage permanent preservation of open space on large institutional properties such as the Carson Valley School, Mount St. Joseph s Academy and Erdenheim Farm sites. 17

32 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 B. Keep Flourtown Country Club in open space use and encourage other golf courses to remain as open space. C. Continue to encourage creative site design that preserves contiguous open space. D. Keep low-intensity and/or clustered uses throughout much of the panhandle area. E. Assist residents in permanently preserving open space on privately-owned property. F. Create small green oases in the most intensely developed areas to buffer incompatible land uses and provide visual relief. GOAL 3: MAXIMIZE OPEN SPACE ON EXISTING ABANDONED AND UNDERTILIZED PROPERTIES OBJECTIVES: A. Seek to acquire blighted buildings and abandoned properties (or portions thereof) that cannot be used for other purposes to add to the open space inventory. GOAL 4: PRESERVE NATURAL FEATURES OBJECTIVES: A. Preserve aquatic features wherever possible. B. Preserve woodlands, particularly those in the panhandle area, and existing tree canopy. C. Encourage creative site design that limits disturbance to natural features. D. Improve stormwater management standards. GOAL 5: ENHANCE THE TOWN- SHIP S NATURAL ENVIRONMENT OBJECTIVES: A. Require adequate buffering and landscaping throughout the township as part of the land development process. B. Reactivate street tree planting programs. C. Develop new shade tree planting program for public areas. D. Encourage private landscaping and beautification efforts. E. Create gateways to enhance the entrances to the township. GOAL 6: CREATE A COORDINATED OPEN SPACE NETWORK OBJECTIVES: A. Connect Township open space wherever practical. B. Establish open space linkages with neighboring communities and the county. C. Coordinate groups involved in Open Space planning and implementation. GOAL 7: MEET RECREATION NEEDS OBJECTIVES: A. Provide additional neighborhood-level open space. B. Provide a network of pedestrian and bicycle corridors and linkages within and between greenways and open space parcels. C. Provide additional recreation facilities and complete other planned improvements for existing parks. D. Invite residents to identify long term needs and bring them to the township s attention. E. Support and coordinate with the developing Park and Recreation plan. GOAL 8: PROTECT SCENIC AND HISTORIC RESOURCES OBJECTIVES: A. Preserve views of natural features and open space areas. B. Preserve corridors of mature, healthy street trees. C. Encourage creative development that preserves views and historic structures. GOAL 9: SUPPORT THE SANDY RUN CREEK WATERSHED CONSERVA- TION PLAN AND OTHER EXISTING AND FUTURE WATERSHED PLANS. OBJECTIVES: A. Implement the action items identified in these plans whenever possible. 18

33 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 THE 1996 OPEN SPACE AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE PLAN Springfield Township adopted an Open Space and Environmental Resource Protection Plan in At that time a series of goals and objectives was developed to address issues regarding the preservation of open space and the protection of environmental resources. As a part of the update process required by the Montgomery County Open Space Program, Springfield has evaluated its previous goals and objectives to address whether the goals are still valid and to evaluate why some of the last plan's recommendations were not implemented. Below are listed the previous recommendations that have been acted upon with accompanying explanations of their status and proposed future action where applicable, followed by those recommendations that have not yet been implemented. COMPLETED PROJECTS Project: Blackhorse Inn fee-simple purchase Status: The building has been donated to the Township. The donation includes an easement across the adjacent land for future trail connections to Bysher Field and Bethlehem Pike. Future Action: The inn could serve as a staging area for a trail head; The easement will become a paved trail. Project: Morris Arboretum trail easement Status: A trail along Northwest Avenue is under construction. Project: Revise cluster development zoning regulations. Status: The AAA zoning district was created to protect open space. Project: Revise floodplain regulations and develop riparian protection standards. Status: A riparian buffer ordinance has been discussed for the past five years. The prototype zoning overlay proved too restrictive for the community. The Board of Commissioners has asked the Planning Commission to rework the proposed ordinance to address the community s concerns. In addition, NPDES Phase II requirements have been adopted and put into effect. Project: Implement shade tree planting program. Status: A shade tree commission was established and has been active. A tree-planting grant of $48,997 was utilized. Project: Coordinate preservation with regional efforts. Status: The Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan has been approved. Project: Develop zoning regulations that help encourage historic preservation. Status: A historic demolition ordinance is being considered by the Board of Commissioners. Explanation: Historic preservation awareness is still in the early stages. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing additional historic preservation options. Project: Wharton-Sinkler Tract Status: A private conservation easement was established. Project: Robertson/Ferry Tract fee simple purchase The former Robertson/Ferry tract, now known as Laurel Beech Park, was acquired in Status: As a result of a subdivision of a larger 19

34 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 2 parcel into three lots, the township was able to acquire this 6.36 acre parcel utilizing a grant of $495,000 in It is now known as Laurel Beech Park. The remaining two parcels have been developed with residential and light industrial uses. REMAINING RECOMMENDATIONS The following recommendations have not been acted upon to date. An explanation and/or description of possible future action is provided for each project: Project: Karr Tract fee simple purchase Explanation: The land is currently too expensive and is involved in a court stipulation that makes purchase difficult at this time. Future Action: When a land development plan is submitted, a recreation area could be negotiated. Project: Carson Valley School trail easement Explanation: The idea of a trail has been presented. The township is awaiting internal organization of Carson. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Dixon Tract trail easement Explanation: Government and local groups are preparing ideas to present to Mr. Dixon. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Mt. Saint Joseph s Academy trail easement Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Develop an open space overlay zoning district. Explanation: The intent of this recommendation was to protect properties of over 10 acres, which may have been sufficiently accomplished through the AAA zoning district. Future Action: The township plans to uphold the purpose of this district. Project: Strengthen woodlands protection standards. Future Action: The Subdivision & Land Development ordinance could be strengthened in this regard. Project: Hold land preservation workshop for target OS landowners & residents. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: PECO Tract fee simple purchase Explanation: There are asbestos and contamination issues at the Oreland substation on Roesch Avenue. PECO periodically abandons and reuses this site. Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: PECO Corridor trail easement Future Action: The township is still interested in pursuing this project. Project: Railroad Corridor fee simple purchase (adjacent to Flourtown Country Club) Explanation: Some sections are no longer available. Future Action: The County is currently working on this project. Laurel Beech Park Recreation Facility 20

35 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 3 EVALUATION OF GROWTH AREAS When planning for open space, it is also important to identify areas that can accommodate any projected community growth. While much of Springfield Township is built out, there is some room for both residential and non-residential infill development. The Township will have to consider where such development should be located. This chapter examines the amount of population and employment growth that is expected in Springfield and assesses whether the township can accommodate that growth under current zoning, and if so, where such growth should be directed. This information will also help the Township to better assess its open space needs. POPULATION, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS Springfield has already experienced its major growth spurt, and its population is expected to level out over the next twenty or so years. By the year 2025, Springfield is projected to have a residential population of 19, 320 persons, which is about 213 less than the Township had in 2000 (Figure 14). In addition, it is expected to have about 7300 persons employed, down from 7850 in 2000 (Figure 15). Population, employment and average household size are all expected to decline by This means that while fewer people will live and work in the Township, those people will require more housing. Approximately 126 new housing units will be needed by 2025 (see Figure 16). These units can be accommodated as infill housing located in the future growth areas indicated in Figure

36 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 3 SPRINGFIELD'S FUTURE GROWTH AREAS While Springfield has already experienced its major growth spurt, there is some room for further development in the Township. The Schematic Land Use Plan in the 1998 Springfield Township Comprehensive Plan identifies three main areas for future mixed-use and high density and/or cluster residential infill development. These are the Oreland area in the north, the Wyndmoor industrial area in the east, and along Bethlehem Pike in the west (Figure 17). In addition to these areas, other parts of the Township may also experience subdivision and infill development. Any future development in the Township would need to be compatible with the character of surrounding areas and would aim to preserve any existing natural features. Figure14 Population Projection Year Population Years % Change , % , % 2005* 19, % 2010* 19, % 2015* 19,380 Source: U.S. Census Bureau; 2020* 19,320 Census of Population and Housing, 2000; DVRPC 2025* 19,320 projections. * Projected population 19,650 19,600 19,550 19,500 Population 19,450 19,400 19,350 19,300 19,250 19,200 19, * 2010* 2015* 2020* 2025* 22

37 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 3 Figure 15 Employment Forecast Year Total Employment Years % Change , % 2000* 7, % 2005* 7, % 2010* 7, % 2015* 7, * 7, * 7,300 *Source: DVRPC Forecasts 8,200 8,000 Total Employed 7,800 7,600 7,400 7,200 7,000 6, * 2005* 2010* 2015* 2020* 2025* Figure Housing Unit Demand Residential 2025 Projected Population in HHs 18,001 Future Average HH Size 2.37 Total Households 7,595 Existing Households (in 2000) 7,471 New Households 124 Vacancy Rate 1.1% New Units Needed

38 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 3 Figure 17 Potential Growth Areas Potential Growth Areas MCPC Montgomery County Planning Commission Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. 24

39 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 4 EXISTING PROTECTED LAND A key component of the open space plan is a review of existing open space. Some of the open space utilized by residents is permanently protected, while other areas are not permanently preserved, and are in essence temporary open space. Permanently protected land refers to land preserved for active or passive recreation use and/or for environmental conservation purposes. In addition to municipally-owned areas, it can include land preserved by private conservation groups and private open space preserved as part of residential or non-residential development. Permanently preserved open space puts limitations on development and provides permanent resource protection this land will continue to exist much the way it does today for future generations. Temporary open space also makes an important contribution to the overall recreation base of a community by providing open space, sheltering significant natural features, and/or providing recreation facilities that do not require municipal involvement in maintenance. However, temporary open space can easily be lost through development or degradation. Creating this plan involves making choices about temporary open space and determining which of these areas the township wants to permanently preserve. PERMANENT OPEN SPACE Currently, there are nearly 276 acres of permanently protected open space in Springfield Township (see Figure 18). This land is owned by a variety of public and private institutions and individuals, and is used for a variety of purposes, including ballfields, golf courses, lakes, meadows, and ponds. MUNICIPAL OPEN SPACE Springfield Township s existing system of parks and open space has grown over the past eleven years with the acquisition of the Robertson/Ferry tract, now known as Laurel Beech Park, and Sandy Run Park (see Figure 18). Today, a total of 11 parks and open spaces are owned and maintained by municipality. All municipally- 25

40 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 4 owned parks are deed restricted in some form, with the exception of Flourtown Country Club. These parks comprise approximately 124 acres of land, 89 of which are considered active space. The active open space includes amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, tot lots, and ball fields. Each offers community residents important recreational opportunities and scenic amenities. Flourtown Country Club PRIVATE OPEN SPACE Approximately 151 acres of permanently protected land are in private ownership. This includes institutional, residential, recreation, education, and Natural Lands Trust properties. The Biddle Woods cluster subdivision, Paper Mill Estates, the Eagle View subdivision, the Stotesbury cluster development, the Wharton-Sinkler tract, and the Morris Arboretum all contribute open space to the township. The Girl Scouts property in the panhandle is also included in this category. However, the Township has been unable to determine precisely how much of the property is in fact permanently protected. TEMPORARY OPEN SPACE Over 741acres of open space are only temporary in nature (see Figure 20). This land falls into several categories including private open space, schools, and lands benefiting from certain tax incentive programs. Mermaid Park ACT 319 The Pennsylvania Farmland and Forest Land Assessment Act was created to preserve land devoted to agricultural use, agricultural reserve, or forest reserve. This preferential tax assessment gives landowners a small incentive to keep the their parcel intact (minimum 10-acre parcel size). If a breach occurs, the landowner must pay rollback taxes for the previous seven years plus interest. With the high demand for land, this penalty is not a significant deterrence, and therefore Act 319 provides minimal land protection. Currently, the Dixon Farm, the Boorse tract and Rock View Farm take advantage of this program. Oreland Park 26

41 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 4 Figure 18 Permanent Open Space Open Space Type Map Key Name Acreage Location Owner Recreation Facilities 1 Cisco Park, Hillcrest Soccer field; multi-use field; 13.0 Hillcrest Ave Township Pond ballfield; fishing pond 2 Bysher Fields 10.5 Bysher Av Township Ballfields (5) 4 Wyndhill Hartwell and Tennis court; multi-use field; 4.5 Township Playground Flourtown Aves soccer field; tot lot Lyster and Enfield Ballfields (2); refreshment 5 Oreland Ballfield 4.3 Township Rds stand; basketball court Public Basketball courts (2); swings; Open 6 Oreland Park 0.8 Clement Rd Township benches Space Ballfields (3); refreshment 7 Veterans Park 6.0 Traymore Ave Township stand 8 Mermaid Park 8.0 Mermaid La Township Pond 9 Laurel Beech Park 11.1 Pleasant Ave Township Pond; soccer field; playground Enfield Rd Township None 11 Sandy Run Park Camp Hill Rd Township Pond (restricted) 12 Girl Scouts of Phila Manor Rd Girl Scouts of Phila. None 13 Paper Mill Estates 1.8 Skyline Dr Paper Mill Estates Communitiy Association, None Inc. Private 14 Eagle View 7.0 Eagle View Dr Private None Open Stotesbury Community 15 Stotesbury 7 Trumbaurer Dr Space Association, Inc. None 16 Morris Arboretum 70.0 Northwestern Ave University of Pennsylvania None 17 Wharton-Sinkler 17.0 Gravers La Private None 18 Natural Lands Trust 16.5 Biddle Woods La Natural Lands Trust None 18B Natural Lands Trust 7.8 Montgomery Ave Natural Lands Trust None Total Permanent Open Space Hillcrest Pond, a municipally-owned permanent open space. The Springfield Mill at the Morris Arboretum's Bloomfield Farm, an important cultural and open space resource. 27

42 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 4 The Wharton-Sinkler Estate includes permanently protected open space. ACT 515 The Pennsylvania Open Space Covenant Act was created to stabilize open areas through the use of real estate tax assessment techniques. It allows certain counties to covenant with landowners for preservation of land in farm, forest, water supply or open space uses. Some eligible lands can be as small as ten acres and must be consistent with the county or municipal open space plan. Unless properly terminated, covenants require the landowner to pay roll-back taxes for the previous five years plus interest. Act 515 provides little to no long-term land protection. The three private country clubs in the township (Whitemarsh, Sandy Run, and North Hills) fall into this category, comprising 288 acres of temporarily protected open space. Sandy Run Country Club, a temporary open space. Figure 19 Distribution of Open Space Temporary Open Space 77% Permanent Open Space 23% INSTITUTIONAL Springfield Township also has a substantial amount of recreational open space offered by several institutions. Public schools including Penn Manor Elementary (currently leased to a school of photography), Enfield Elementary, Springfield Township Middle, Springfield Township Senior High, and Erdenheim Elementary provide much open space in the form of playing fields, basketball courts, and open fields. In addition, private schools such as Carson Valley, Mt Saint Joseph s, and LaSalle College High provide both passive and active open space. The Oreland and Flourtown Swim Clubs also contribute recreational spaces. These open spaces differ from the municipally owned spaces because they may not remain open forever. First, land use decisions for public schools are not made by the municipality. Therefore, as enrollment patterns in the region as a whole change, the local schools could be closed. When this happens, the school district often offers the property to the township for purchase. If the township does not accept the offer, the schools may close and be used for other purposes, including offices or apartments, and the recreational and open space could be lost. Second, if the institutional space changes hands, there is no guarantee that the new owners will want or be able to offer the same open space for public use. 28

43 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 4 Figure 20 Temporary Open Space Open Space Type Map Key Name Acreage Location Recreation Facilities 3 Flourtown Country Club 51.0 Wissahickon Ave Golf course 19 Carson Valley School 103 Wissahickon Ave Tennis court; basketball court; open fields 20 Mt. St. Joseph's Academy 77 Wissahickon Ave Tennis courts (4); open fields Swimming pools; playground Private 21 Oreland Swim Club 9.0 Paper Mill Rd equipment; basketball court; Open volleyball court Space Swimming pool; tennis courts 22 Flourtown Swim Club 3.0 Bysher Ave (3); basketball court; open field 23 Piszek Properties 30.0 Pennsylvania Ave None 24 Swimming pool; tennis courts LaSalle College High 43.0 Cheltenham Ave (5); ballfields (2); soccer field; School track; multi-use field 25 Penn Manor Elementary Ballfields (2); playground 7.0 Paper Mill Rd School equipment 26 Enfield Elementary Paper Mill and Ballfields (2); basketball court; 5.4 School Church Rds playground equipment Schools 27 Enfield Jr. High School 13.8 Paper Mill Rd Tennis courts (10); basketball court; soccer field; ballfields (2); track 28 Senior High School 21.1 Paper Mill Rd Ballfields (4); soccer field; tennis courts (4); track 29 Erdenheim Elementary Soccer field; basketball court; 4.7 Haws La School playground equipment Whitemarsh Country Germantown Ave Golf course Club Act Sandy Run Country Club Walnut Ave Golf course 32 North Hills Country Club Paper Mill Rd Golf course Wissahickon and 33 Erdenheim/Dixon Farm 54.0 None Stenton Aves Act Boorse 14.4 Pennsylvania Ave None 35 Rock View Farm Northwestern Ave None Total Temporary Open Space Despite their temporary nature, these sources of open space are still important to Springfield as they offer residents a greater range of choices to meet their recreational needs. They also add an aesthetic quality to the township by opening up views and providing some relief to the largely developed landscape. In total, Springfield has a significant amount of open space totaling more than 966 acres. This land provides Springfield residents with many opportunities to enjoy all that open space can offer -- recreation, tranquility, beauty, and a sense of community. However, more than two thirds of this open space could be lost to development in time if the land owners or land use changes (see Figure 19). If the township acquires additional open and recreational land, residents can be assured that the municipality will be able to offer them the same or greater level of active and passive open space as they enjoy today. 29

44 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 4 Figure 21 Permanent and Temporary Open Space 30

45 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 5 INVENTORY OF POTENTIALLY VULNERABLE RESOURCES A key component of the open space plan is an inventory of potentially vulnerable resources. Such an inventory examines geology, topography, soils, surface waters and hydrology, vegetation and wildlife, and historic and cultural resources. Identification of these sensitive areas is a first step toward determining priorities in open space planning. GEOLOGY Except for surface outcrops, bedrock geology is unseen, and as a result its influence on natural features is not always acknowledged. However, the influence is both strong and pervasive, for bedrock geology is the foundation of an area. Bedrock, along with the hydrologic cycle, is responsible for the changes in elevation, steep slopes, location of watercourses, and orientation (orientation, in turn, will influence vegetative communities, soils, and availability of sunlight). The bedrock or parent material has a great influence on the type of soil formed. For example, hard, igneous bedrock has resulted in soils with a high stone and boulder content. Groundwater yield differs from one bedrock formation to the next. In Montgomery County, the difference ranges from under 1 gallon per minute (gpm) to over 30 gpm. Montgomery County is located in the Triassic Lowland and Piedmont Upland section of the Piedmont Physiographic Province. The Triassic Lowlands are primarily red shales and sandstones, with intrusions of diabase. Four formations - Stockton Sandstone/Conglomerate /Shale, Lockatong Argillite/Shale, Brunswick Shale/ Sandstone, and Diabase - comprise the Triassic Lowlands. The formations underlying Springfield are described below and shown in Figure 22: Ledger Dolomite/Elbrook/Conestoga Limestone forms a limestone valley that extends eastward from Lancaster County through Chester County, tapering off in Abington Township. The soils formed from this parent material are fertile, and the groundwater yields are good when solution 31

46 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 22 Geology yields variable, though generally moderate (usually less than 20 gal/min). Chickies Quartzite is located between the two formations noted above, forming a band that extends from the Cheltenham Township line in Enfield across Paper Mill Road into parts of Erdenheim and the panhandle. Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed when sandstone was exposed to extreme heat and pressure. It is a hard, dense rock that weathers slowly and forms prominent, narrow hills and ridges. Groundwater supplies are small but adequate for domestic use. The Bryn Mawr formation covers a large portion of Wyndmoor between Cheltenham Avenue and Stenton Avenue. A mix of gravel and sand, it is deeply weathered with moderate to high permeability and good surface drainage. It is generally not considered an important aquifer, although good water yields may be obtained from shallow wells. Bryn Mawr Fm Chickies Fm Conestoga Fm Elbrook Fm Felsic Gneiss, Pyroxene bearing Granite Gneiss and Granite Ledger Fm Patapsco Fm Pensauken and Bridgeton Fms Undiv Wissahickon Fm (Oligioclase Mica Schist) channels (underground streams) are tapped. This is the largest formation found in the Township, covering virtually all of Oreland and Enfield, and much of Flourtown. Wissahickon Schist/Felsic Gneiss (granitic gneiss) are the other major formations in the Township, covering much of Wyndmoor and the panhandle area, and parts of Erdenheim. The Schists are softer rock and are highly weathered near the surface; the felsic areas are harder, more resistant to weathering and have relatively steep but stable slopes. Joints through which groundwater flows are moderately abundant, making groundwater Two small areas in the Township - near Sandy Run Creek and just north of East Mill Road - contain Diabase, an igneous rock also referred to as 'black granite'. Diabase was formed as molten rock that was extruded into large cracks in the surrounding Brunswick geologic formation. The intrusions of Diabase, called sills and dikes, are generally narrow (less than half a mile wide, and in some cases only several feet in width). The intrusions are very resistant to erosion, weathering, water infiltration, and groundwater movement. Diabase bedrock contains some fractures near the surface, resulting in minimal absorption of water. The formation is notorious for low well yields, and is very difficult to excavate. Areas of diabase are often steeply sloped and wooded, with numerous surface rocks and boulders. Patapsco is found in two relatively small areas in Flourtown. This clay and gravelly sand formation is deeply weathered, has a moderate to high permeability, and is a good source of groundwater. The Pensauken/Bridgeton formations are found in three small areas - near the North 32

47 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Hills Country Club, and next to the areas containing the Patapsco formation noted above. Also a deeply weathered formation, it generally has good surface drainage, although it may be poor in some locations. The Pensauken formation is known to be an important water source in southeastern Bucks County while yields in the Bridgeton formation vary. TOPOGRAPHY STEEP SLOPES Slope, or frequency of change in elevation, is an important environmental condition. When Figure 23 Topography expressed as a percentage, slope is defined as the amount of change in vertical elevation over a specified horizontal distance. For example, a three foot rise in elevation over a one hundred foot horizontal distance is expressed as a three percent slope. These changes in elevation throughout a community contribute a great deal to its appearance and natural diversity. This is especially true of the steep slope areas of a community, which also cause limitations to development. The slope and soils present on steep slopes are in balance with vegetation, underlying geology and precipitation levels. Maintaining this equilibrium reduces the danger to public health and safety posed by unstable hillsides. Steep slopes often have a combination of vegetation, climate, soil and underlying geology that differs from the surrounding area. Frequently this means that the environmental sensitivity of the steep slope are different as well. Susceptibility to erosion and mass movement may be greater than the surrounding area, especially if vegetation is removed. Increased runoff and sedimentation from disturbed slopes require increased public expenditure for flood control and stormwater management. Also, different species of plants and the associated wildlife that depends on these plants may be present only on the slopes, creating unique recreation opportunities. Overall, steep slopes are not a major feature of the Township. Using soil types from the Soil Survey as a general guide, Figure 23 shows that a concentration of steep slopes occurs in areas of Wyndmoor and Erdenheim, between Cheltenham Avenue and the Paper Mill Road/Stenton Avenue/ Bethlehem Pike intersection. To the extent that development in this part of the Township has been slope sensitive and/or has provided open space, as with the Biddle Woods development, some preservation has occurred, but few if any further preservation opportunities appear to exist. Some of the smaller areas of steep slopes located in the panhandle and in Oreland have been less affected by development and should be considered in the Township's open space preservation planning. Steep Slopes >15% Woodlands WOODLANDS The original vegetation of Montgomery County was a dense forest of hardwoods which covered 33

48 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 24 Soils over 99 percent of the county. Oaks were the dominant species, but chestnut, tulip poplar, hickory, ash, red maple, and dogwoods were also present. Several hundred years of clearing and cultivation, and in more recent times the rapid development of houses and commercial facilities, have reduced woodlands to a shadow of their former extent. The principle types of woodlands remaining in the county are: Red Oak - About 60% of all remaining woodlands. Northern Red Oak is predominant, but Black, Scarlet and Chestnut Oak are also abundant. Ash/Maple/Elm - About 19% of all woodlands. Local mixtures will vary, and include minor species, such as the Slippery Elm, Yellow Birch, Black Gum, Sycamore, and Poplar. Eastern Red Cedar - 18% of the county's wooded acres are covered with this species and associated species: Gray Birch, Red Maple, Sweet Birch, and Aspen. Sugar Maple/Beech/Yellow Birch - The remaining three percent of woodlands is comprised of this association. Associated species include Red Maple, Hemlock, Northern Red oak, White Ash, and Tulip Poplar. Woodlands and hedgerows serve many purposes, both functional and aesthetic. Woodlands prevent erosion, provide habitat for wildlife, provide buffers for creeks, and offer recreational opportunities for residents. Hedgerows and wooded corridors prevent erosion also, and provide cover for wildlife movement, shelter, and migration. The distribution of woodlands in Montgomery County can be described in three different patterns. Small, widely scattered stands can be found east of the central county ridge, often strung along alluvial soils. Long, linear stands along streams and on alluvial soils are typical in the central part of the county. Large forested blocks of land, often hundreds to thousands of acres in size, are found on ridges in the central and northern areas of the county. Important woodlands in the Township are found in the panhandle area - including the Morris Arboretum and land between Ridge Pike and Manor Road (Figure 20). However, with the exception of the arboretum, no permanent open space currently exists for preservation of these areas. Alluvial Soils Hydric Soils Prime Agricultural Soils Soils of Statewide Importance SOILS Soils are a natural assortment of organic materials and mineral fragments that cover the earth and supports plant life. The composition of soils changes slowly over time, due to weathering of rock and activity of soil organisms. As a consequence, soils vary with respect to depth to bedrock, depth to groundwater, color, mineral characteristics, fertility, texture, and erodibility. One of the most influential natural features, soils 34

49 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 are a result of the hydrology and the weathering capacity of the underlying geology in a given area. They are also influenced by the orientation of the land and the types of vegetation that grow in them. Conversely, the type of soil influences the vegetative cover of the land, which effects the quality and quantity of surface and groundwater, wildlife diversity, rates of erosion, and the aesthetic quality of the landscape. Though soils are diverse, soil scientists have classified the soils found in Montgomery County into several groups called soil series. Soils listed within the same series will display similar subsurface characteristics. The surface characteristics of soils within a particular series can vary in slope, degree of erosion, size of stones, and other easily recognizable features. Although a variety of soil types exist in all parts of the Township, the most extensive type is "made land" from several soil series (Duffield, Lawrenceville, Chester, and Manor, for example). In addition to the soil mapping units, soils can also be divided into prime and important agricultural soils, hydric components, and alluvial soils. The groups of soil pertinent to the Township are described below and shown in Figure 24. PRIME AND IMPORTANT AGRICULTURAL SOILS The agricultural capability of soil is measured based on fertility, depth to bedrock and groundwater, texture, erodibility, and slope. Soils are classified as prime farmland, farmland of statewide importance, and other land, based on these characteristics. Prime farmland includes deep, well drained, and moderately sloped soils that can support high yields of crops with little management. Farmland of statewide importance includes soils that support cultivation but require careful crop management. The remaining soils are best used for pasture and woodlands. Figure 24 shows that many Township areas contain soils suitable for agricultural use, including a number of areas with prime soils. Many of these areas remain undeveloped at this time, including the private golf courses, and sites throughout the panhandle area. However, except for selected sites such as the Carson school property, agricultural uses do not exist and therefore are not an important part of the Township's character. As a result, preserving open space in these areas will not be to protect the land for farming, but for other purposes, such as to protect other natural features or link open space areas. ALLUVIAL SOILS Alluvial soils are frequently, but not always, located within a floodplain. They have been deposited by flowing water and are not stable as a result of their texture and composition. The presence of alluvial soils is only one indicator of a floodplain. Changes in the tributary drainage area or slope of the adjacent stream may create a floodplain that is either larger or smaller than the area of alluvial soils. Also, alluvial soils do not indicate the probability of recurrence of a flood (for example, a 100 year flood). An important aspect of alluvial soils is that they often form aquifer recharge areas. HYDRIC SOILS In general, soils that are saturated with water at or near the ground surface, particularly during certain times of the year, are considered to have a high water table. As would be expected, such areas often exist near water bodies and watercourses and may be part of wetlands. Because of wetness, these soils present a major constraint for development wherever on-site subsurface sewage treatment is utilized, as in many rural areas, since treatment depends largely on adequate water percolation through the soil. In Springfield this is not an issue since it is almost completely sewered, and such soils exist only in small concentrations anyway. SURFACE WATERS AND HYDROLOGY Water is a valuable resource, consumed by people and industry, enjoyed at recreation facilities, employed in the assimilation of treated sewage, and integral to the landscape. The average rainfall in the county varies from 43 inches near City line Avenue to 47 inches in the vicinity of the Green Lane Reservoir. 35

50 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 25 Hydrology TOWNSHIP WATERCOURSES AND WATERBODIES The township is crossed by three creeks the Wissahickon in the panhandle, Sandy Run in Oreland, and Sunny Brook covering parts of Enfield, Oreland and Flourtown. Parts of each of these are protected by existing open space. For example, the Wissahickon is bordered by the Morris Arboretum and Whitemarsh Country Club. However, in general this open space is not permanently protected. In addition to its creeks, the township also contains three ponds located in Mermaid Park, Cisco Park, and Sandy Run Park. These serve as habitat and a water source for wildlife and storage areas for stormwater, and enhance the aesthetic quality of the community (see Figure 25). Streams Wetlands FEMA Floodplain It should be noted that in any given year, annual precipitation can vary from the average by as much as ten inches. Generally speaking, 25 percent of precipitation becomes direct runoff, 50 percent evaporates or is transpired by plants, and 25 percent replenishes groundwater. The surface water that falls on or is carried through Springfield affects the topography, soils, vegetation, and groundwater and comes from two natural sources: direct runoff and groundwater. A third, manmade source, may also contribute to stream flow: effluent from sewage treatment plants, which tends to dampen the variation between high and low flow periods. FLOODPLAIN AND STREAM CORRIDORS Over 250 acres in Springfield Township are located within the 100-year flood plain as designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Much of the time, it is dry: During storms, however, the floodplain stores and conveys floodwater. Development within the floodplain reduces the carrying capacity and increases the height and destructive ability of floodwater. In addition to carrying floodwaters, the floodplain and stream corridor serve other important functions. The condition of the stream corridor itself is important in minimizing erosion and water pollution, protecting water quality (temperature and velocity), and providing animal habitat and recreation opportunities. Floodplains in the township identified by the Federal Emergency Management System (FEMA) are found along Sandy Run Creek, the Wissahickon Creek, Paper Mill Run, and St. Joseph s Run. Well vegetated corridors will reduce pollutant loads to streams, shade the stream, and provide habitat for wildlife. If vegetation is preserved along the banks of feeder streams as well as the main stem, pollutant loads are greatly reduced. Wetlands that filter and impede stormwater and provide a habitat for aquatic life are frequently found along stream corridors. Unconsolidated gravel and stone deposits along corridors allow for groundwater recharge. People also benefit from protected stream corridors, as they provide opportunities for trails and other forms of recreation. 36

51 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Historically, some residents of the township have suffered flood damage- both within and outside the 100-year flood plain- during the recent storms occurring in 1996, 1999 (Hurricane Floyd), 2001 (Tropical Storm Allison), and the remnants of Hurricane Jean in Areas of the township that have experienced repeated flooding include: Oreland Run section of the Sunnybrook Creek including parts of Oreland Mill Road, Lorraine Avenue, Lyster Road, and Hemlock Road and the Enfield section of Sunnybrook Creek at Quill and Lantern Lanes. Additionally, several roads and bridges in poor drainage areas have flooded during these recent storms. The Township is working diligently to address this situation, and had developed a stormwater improvements program to address this issue. WETLANDS Wetlands have value and are worthy of protection due to a number of characteristics. However, it is easier to discuss the benefits of wetlands than it is to delineate the wetland itself. Some wetlands area easily recognizable by most people because the presence or influence of water is obvious. However, many wetlands are subject only to seasonal flooding. For much of the year, surface water may not be present. Still other wetlands develop in areas where the soil is saturated for long periods, but never flooded. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers have defined wetlands as, Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Depending on where they are located, wetlands may serve one or more beneficial functions. Almost all wetlands provide habitat for birds, amphibians and fish. These in turn support other wildlife. Wetlands also mitigate flooding by holding back floodwater and slowing stream velocity. Wetlands improve water quality too. As water flows through a wetland, it slows and drops much of its sediment load. In addition, nutrients that can cause algae blooms and other pollution problems are taken up by wetland vegetation. Wetlands located in depressions often encourage infiltration of stormwater, contributing to groundwater recharge. The township has a few wetland areas based on the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). The NWI offers a broad based, generalized overview of wetlands, therefore other wetlands may also exist in the municipality. Hydric soils may also indicate the presence of wetlands. The Army Corps of Engineers or a qualified consultant could be enlisted for a final determination of where wetlands are in fact present. Small NWI wetland sites are scattered across the township mainly near the Sandy Run Creek, in the panhandle, and along the Wissahickon Creek floodplain (see Figure 25). WATERSHEDS In terms of drainage, virtually all Township land drains toward the Schuylkill River (with the acception of the Tacony Creek watershed, which drains into the Delaware River), as does the major portion of the county. As shown in Figure 26, this occurs within the Wissahickon watershed basin, which also covers parts of Upper Gwynedd, Lower Gwynedd, Upper Dublin, Whitemarsh, and Whitpain Townships and the Borough of North Wales. This basin is comprised of a series of smaller basins, the most important of which for Springfield is the Wissahickon Creek. Because watershed basins are usually larger than one community, an interrelationship exists whereby municipalities that are upstream contribute surface water flow to Springfield, while those downstream receive the Township's flow. With this in mind, the Township should aim to maintain the natural conditions of its drainage system, such as through preservation of open space along watercourses. PROTECTED WATERCOURSES Pennsylvania, as required by the Federal Clean Water Act, has established water quality standards that apply to all streams and other waterbodies in the Commonwealth. The water quality standards, codified in Title 25 PA Code Chapter 93, establish water quality criteria that need to be maintained to protect designated water uses. Discharges to waters of the Commonwealth are evaluated to assure that water quality standards are complied with. Where needed, effluent or other discharge limitations are established to assure that water quality criteria are achieved and 37

52 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 26 Watersheds flowing like a stream, only much slower. Groundwater is tapped as a source of drinking water and for industrial purposes where surface water is unavailable. Groundwater replenishment occurs slowly, as precipitation and in some cases stream water seeps through the soil, down to the aquifer. Open, undisturbed land is essential to groundwater recharge, since vegetation serves to retain precipitation where it falls, allowing it to soak into the soil rather than run off the surface. Impervious surface from development prevents infiltration of precipitation. The Township obtains its water supply from Aqua American and the Philadelphia Water Company, which utilize a series of wells (14 percent of supply) and reservoirs (86 percent of supply) for its system. Two of the thirteen wells are located in Flourtown and Oreland, and are probably the direct source of water for many residents. Streams Cresheim Creek Sandy Run Schuylkill River Tacony Creek designated uses protected. Non-point source discharges are required to incorporate Best Management Practices. The protected water use designation for a given waterway is an indicator of its value for the protection and propagation of aquatic life and can be used to prioritize the unprotected stream and stream valley resources in a municipality. The only designated watercourse in the Township is the Wissahickon Creek, which is protected for trout stocking. GROUNDWATER Wissahickon Creek Groundwater behaves much like surface water, SCENIC ROADS AND VISTAS Scenic resources are elements of the natural and/ or built environment that stand out among all the attributes of a community. They tend to be the most pleasant and interesting places, such as historic sites, natural features like lakes or creeks, and recreation areas. Although the process of identifying a scenic resource is largely dependent on the observer's own opinions and preferences, information collected from a community group, such as a planning commission, can provide a relatively broad inventory. Wherever possible, these areas should be preserved and linked to the community's open space and recreation system. Scenic resources in Springfield are summarized below under the combined heading of roadways and views and are mapped in Figure 27. The defining element or feature for each resource is noted. Roadways with scenic attributes contribute to a community's open space system because they provide a way to view its scenic resources and in some cases also serve as recreation routes for walkers, bicyclists, and joggers. A number of such roads exist in the Township. 38

53 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 27 Scenic Roads & Vistas across parts of Sandy Hill Country Club, one of the Township's major open space areas. Wissahickon Avenue - Bethlehem Pike to Stenton Avenue. This is perhaps the Township's most scenic road, taking the traveller into a significant open space corridor (comprised of Carson and St. Joseph's schools, Dixon farm, and the Morris Arboretum) Stenton Avenue Whitemarsh Township to Northwestern Avenue. With Morris Arboretum to the south and Erdenheim farm to the north, this stretch of Stenton avenue has an open, rural feel. Northwestern Avenue Stenton Avenue to Andorra Road. In terms of its scenic value, this road functions as an extension of Wissahickon Avenue, continuing the quality views into private open space. Montgomery Avenue Bethlehem Pike to Evergreen Avenue. This road provides scenic views of open space in Cisco Park and the Biddle Woods area across Paper Mill Road. Mermaid Lane Stenton Avenue to Queen Street. This part of Mermaid Lane passes through a residential area that has pleasant shade tree cover. It is also adjacent to Mermaid Park, one of the township s main public open space areas. Paper Mill Road - Edann Road to Bruce Road. This road segment takes the traveller past North Hills Country Club, one of the Township's major open space areas. The view this provides should be protected. Pennsylvania Avenue - Camp Hill Road to Lynn Avenue. Scenic views of private open space (Boorse/Piszek properties) exist along both sides of this winding road. Walnut Avenue - Camp Hill Road to Oreland Mill Road. This road provides views Manor Road South of Ridge Pike. Manor Road serves the most undeveloped are of the township, taking the traveler past a dense area of woodlands and adjoining open space. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Historic sites are another important vulnerable resource in a community. Historic structures and places are an important element in creating and maintaining a community's sense of place. These historic resources add to an area's quality of life by providing a community with pride and ownership of its past. They also make a valuable contribu- 39

54 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 tion to an area s current educational, cultural, and social environment. Preservation also makes good economic sense. Long considered the "ultimate in recycling," historic preservation allows for the re-use of existing buildings and infrastructure, while retaining the heritage that defines a community. NATIONAL REGISTER SITES The National Register of Historic Places contains a record of properties considered worthy of preservation at the national level. Six sites in Springfield Township are currently included on the Register: The Black Horse Inn, Springfield Mill, Carson Valley School, John Welsh House, Stotesbury Club House, and the Yeakel Miller Complex. OTHER HISTORIC RESOURCES At this time, the most comprehensive inventory of township sites has been compiled by the Springfield Township Historical Society. Although in some respects only a preliminary survey, it contains good information on numerous sites, some of which are mentioned below in Figure 28 and their locations shown on Figure 29. It should be noted that the list is not intended to confer any priority to these sites in terms of preservation, but rather simply highlights sites that are generally recognized as important. The township is in the process of drafting an ordinance to protect historic buildings from demolition. Figure 29 shows a map of sites grouped into properties with buildings built between 1700 and 1851 (61 structures); 1851 and 1900 (300 structures); and 1901 and 1930 (772 structures). This map may or may not be the basis of a historic demolition ordinance: In fact, a list of historic buildings on which to base the ordinance has not yet been established. The purpose of the ordinance would be to delay or prevent demolition of certain structures by following a process involving the Planning Commission. Keystone House, Built

55 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 28 Selected Inventory of Historic Resources Map Key Description Address Circa National Register Status 1 Black Horse Inn; "Sampson & the Lion" 1432 Bethlehem Pike 1833 Listed 2 Carson Valley School* Wissahickon Avenue 1917 Listed 3 COMO House; "Window on Pike" Inn 2 Chesney Lane 1743 None 4 Darwin Hall; Real estate office 1415 Bethlehem Pike 1750 None 5 Fairwold Estate/Reconstructionist Congregation Camp Hill Road Eligible 6 Faulkner-Levering-Rath House 9285 Ridge Pike 1890 Eligible 7 Four-Way Farm/Tecce Property B Ridge Pike Eligible 8* Gilbert/Juico Property * Church Road (north side) Eligible 9 Guildford; Wharton Sinkler Conference Center Gravers Lane 1927 None 10 House and carriage home 907 Bethlehem Pike 1876 None 11 Huston/Harkins Property 1799 E. Willow Grove Ave 1801 Eligible 12 Keystone House; John Welsh House 8765 Stenton Aveue 1867 Listed 13 Lardner/O'Malley Property 606 Grace Lane 1770 Eligible 14 Office of Burke, Lawton, Bewer 926 Bethlehem Pike 1744 None 15 Oyster houses: "Fingers" & "Dudley's" 700 Bethlehem Pike 1829 None 16 Poe House; "Ropsley" house & gardens 8700 Montgomery Avenue 1916 None 17 Rex Property 805 Bethlehem Pike 1890 Eligible 18 Rowe's house (early brick house) 1408 Bethlehem Pike 1850 None 19 Scheetz Property 10 Camp Hill Road 1700s Eligible 20 Sims Estate/Lloyd-Hope Property E. Willow Grove Ave 1910, 1942 Eligible 21 Springfield Mill; Piper-Streeper Mill Northwestern Avenue 1854 Listed 22 Stotesbury Club House 7830 Eastern Ave 1904 Listed 23 Streeper-Karr House 1208 Bethlehem Pike 1744 None 24 The "Wardrobe"; Township Library 1140 Bethlehem Pike 1741 None 25 Urbano Property 808 Bethlehem Pike 1820 None 26 Van Ressler Property Camp Hill Rd & Penn Ave Eligible 27 Wheelpump Hotel 529 Bethlehem Pike pre 1740s None 28 Yeakel Miller Complex 500 & 502 Bethlehem Pike 1875 Listed *Not Mapped The Black Horese Inn,

56 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 5 Figure 29 Historic and Cultural Resources 42

57 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 6 ANALYSIS OF UNPROTECTED RESOURCES This chapter identifies areas where vulnerable resources are not permanently protected, proposes priorities for their future preservation, and establishes specific protection goals. Generally, the priority categories are based on the extent of resources found in a given area, particularly where a concentration exists, their location and contribution to community identity, and the open space goals established in Chapter 2. Figure 30 shows the locations of these sites. These priorities are only based on vulnerable resources, and may not be the same as the priorities established in the implementation portion of this plan. COMPOSITE OF VULNERABLE RESOURCES As can be seen from Figure 30, Springfield Township has several natural resources that are not currently protected from future degradation. The township s goals for this open space plan include maximizing permanent preservation of open space, protecting scenic and historic resources, and preserving natural features such as creek corridors and woodlands. With this in mind a composite of vulnerable resources was created including woodlands, wetlands, steep slopes (15% or greater), alluvial soils, hydric soils, and state and prime agricultural soils within the township. These vulnerable resources are generally not protected by ordinances. As floodplains are protected by ordinance, they are not included in the list of unprotected resources, although they are indeed vulnerable and should continue to be protected. Priority areas have been chosen based on concentration of resources, scenic views, and proximity to existing open space. Figure 30 also illustrates the locations of protected open space to show the extent to which these vulnerable resources are already protected. 43

58 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 6 Figure 30 Unprotected Resources MCPC Montgomery County Planning Commission Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. 44

59 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 6 PRIORITIZATION OF AREAS FOR PRESERVATION HIGHEST PRIORITY PARCELS Highest priority parcels were determined by examining those properties that contain vulnerable features, particularly woodlands, and are designated as undeveloped, agricultural, or private open space. These vulnerable parcels, shown in Figure 31, are most likely to benefit from available open space preservation tools and should be the highest priority for acquisition, should they become available. Piszek & Boorse Parcels Woodlands, State & Prime Agricultural Soils, adjacent to existing public open space (Sandy Run Park), provides scenic vistas. Rear of Tecce Property Woodlands, Prime Agricultural Soils, located in important preservation area (panhandle). Rock View Farm Partnership on Andorra Road Woodlands, located in important preservation area (panhandle). Scattered Properties on Andorra Road Woodlands, State & Prime Agricultural Soils, located in important preservation area (panhandle). HIGH PRIORITY PARCELS High priority parcels were determined by examining those properties that contain vulnerable features other than woodlands, and are designated as undeveloped, agricultural, or private open space. Karr Tract Prime & State Agricultural Soils, adjacent to existing institutional open space (LaSalle College High School). North Hills Country Club- State & Prime Agricultural Soils, provides scenic vistas. R. Davis Wood Parcel Prime Agricultural Soils, Adjacent to existing private open space (Biddle Woods). Sandy Run Country Club- State & Prime Agricultural Soils, adjacent to existing public open space (Sandy Run Park), provides scenic vistas. Whitemarsh Valley Country Club- State & Prime Agricultural Soils, adjacent to existing permanently protected open space (Morris Arboretum). PRIORITY AREAS Priority areas were determined by examining which areas contain contiguous vulnerable features that are not necessarily designated as undeveloped, agricultural, or private open space. Many of these areas are currently institutional or underutilized single-family residential areas. Some of these areas contain temporarily protected open space. These areas are also shown in Figure 6.2. Erdenheim Farm (Dixon Property): Prime & State Agricultural Soils, Scenic Vistas. Carson Valley and Mount St. Joseph s Schools: Temporarily Protected Open Space- Prime & State Agricultural Soils, provides scenic vistas. Erdenheim Wooded Areas and Steep Slopes Woodlands, Steep Slopes, Prime & State Agricultural Soils, Alluvial & Hydric Soils, adjacent to existing private open space (Biddle Woods), provides scenic vistas. Panhandle Wooded Areas and Steep Slopes Woodlands, Steep Slopes, and Prime & State Agricultural Soils. MJE Builders Parcel Woodlands, Prime Agricultural Soils, located in important preservation area (panhandle). Morris & Hope Parcel Also known as the Hope Starr Lloyd Property: Prime Agricultural Soils, in the vicinity of the Karr Tract. 45

60 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 6 Figure 31 Priority Vulnerable Resources MCPC Montgomery County Planning Commission Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. 46

61 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 7 POTENTIAL OPEN SPACE LINKAGES An important aspect of open space is the accessibility of that space to community residents and to the region as a whole. This section of the plan identifies potential open space linkages that can tie together open space sites within the Township and connect to open space in adjacent communities. Such connections help form a more comprehensive open space system for residents and contribute to the creation of a more effective and enjoyable regional network. They can increase the accessibility of parks by allowing off-street pedestrian and bicycle access and can offer recreational opportunities in and of themselves as passive, natural recreational space. Examples of potential linkages include utility corridors, stream valleys, abandoned rail lines, sidewalks, and similar linear features. Identification of potential linkages on a regional level will help to contribute to Montgomery County's vision of a Countywide Trail System. Nine possible connections for Springfield Township are described below and shown in Figure 32. These linkages have been prioritized into two categories: short-term priorities and long-term priorities. Trails in the short-term priorities category should be planned within the next two to five years and long-term priorities should begin within five to ten years. 47

62 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 7 Figure 32 Existing and Future Trails Montgomery County Planning Commission Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. MCPC 48

63 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 7 SHORT-TERM PRIORITIES A. CRESHEIM TRAIL/WISSAHICKON GREEN RIBBON TRAIL CONNECTOR (AKA PLYMOUTH RAIL TRAIL) This linkage would utilize the remaining portions of the former railroad right-of-way corridor adjacent to Flourtown Country Club. It would connect the proposed Cresheim Trail to the Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail and Fort Washington state park, which are important regional open space resources. The width, length, and location of this linkage make it one of the most important potential open space corridors in the Township. In addition to connecting open space areas, its existing and potential links with shopping areas, schools and neighborhoods represent a unique opportunity to encourage more non-motor vehicle trips to meet local needs. B. CRESHEIM TRAIL This linkage would utilize the former Philadelphia/ Germantown/Chestnut Hill railroad corridor between Stenton Avenue and Paper Mill Road. The trail will connect the village center of Flourtown to Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, passing through Cheltenham along the way. The trial will link to recreational facilities including Fairmount Park, Mermaid Park, and Springfield High School. Currently, portions of this corridor are owned and used by Philadelphia Electric Company and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (for Route 309). The Cresheim Trail has also been identified in the County s Proposed Primary Trail Network. The Cresheim Trail-Wissahickon Trail Connector (A) would link to the Cresheim Trail at the junction of the 309 corridor and Penn Oak Road. The Foundation of the Rotary Club of Chestnut Hill has received funding from DCNR for a feasibility study of this trail. The application included a letter of support from Springfield Township. Cheltenham Township and The Friends of the Cresheim Trail have also received a grant for matching funds for the DCNR grant. C. WISSAHICKON AVENUE TRAIL CONNECTOR A paved trail is already underway connecting Bysher Fields, the Black Horse Inn and historic Bethlehem Pike. A connection between this trail and the planned Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail at Stenton Avenue is possible through the Mount Saint Joseph School tracts. In January of 2005, Springfield applied for a $10,000 PECO Energy grant for a feasibility/trail design study. D. SANDY RUN CREEK Sandy Run Creek extends into the northern corner of Springfield from Upper Dublin Township before entering Wissahickon Creek at Fort Washington State Park in Whitemarsh Township. It therefore provides an opportunity to connect Springfield with an important regional open space area. Further, it would complement Upper Dublin's plan to preserve its portion of the creek as part of a proposed greenway/trail system. This linkage is also identified in the 2001 Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan. LONG-TERM PRIORITIES E. ORELAND CONNECTOR This link would connect Haws Lane, Church Road, Meadow Lane, and Montgomery Avenue up to Ulmer Avenue via an off-road trail. Destinations connected by this linkage include Erdenheim Elementary and Senior High Schools, Orland Ball Field, homes in the northern portion of the Township, and the Oreland Train Station. F. MANOR CREEK This portion of Manor Creek is located at the far end of the panhandle area on permanently protected land owned by the Girl Scouts of Philadelphia organization. Its value as a link lies in possible connections with Fairmount Park to the north (via Northwestern Avenue in the Township or Bells Mill Road in Philadelphia) and the Schuylkill River Trail to the south in Whitemarsh Township. 49

64 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 7 G. NORTH HILLS COUNTRY CLUB - ORELAND BALLFIELD This linkage would utilize an existing Townshipowned drainage right-of-way that extends from the golf course (and also the swim club) in Oreland to the Oreland Little League Fields. Although usually filled with some water, a portion of its sixtyfoot width could be used as an open space connection between the golf course and the ball field site. Further, if used beyond the little league fields it connects with linkage E identified above. H. WISSAHICKON CREEK This portion of the Wissahickon Creek could serve as an extension of the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association s Greenway. After the development of the Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail along Stenton Avenue, creating an additional greenway along the creek may become be a priority. This link is also listed as a Primary Greenway in the County Comprehensive Plan. LINKAGE FORMS Some details concerning the form of these trails (precise location, surface type, amenities, etc.) may appear in the recommendations section of this plan, however details of individual projects will be determined at the time of their implementation. This plan simply identifies the general locations where linkages of some type are desirable. 50

65 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 8 EVALUATION OF OPEN SPACE NEEDS This section of the plan examines the amount of existing public open space and types of recreation facilities in relation to current and expected future needs. Recreation-oriented organizations such as the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) recommend that municipalities strive to meet their open space needs independently of other providers, such as schools and private developments. Therefore open space provided by quasi-public establishments is considered only peripherally. An analysis of recreational public open space considers how open space land is distributed in addition to showing if a deficit exists or will occur in the future. The results of the analysis should help guide decisions concerning future open space preservation and facilities planning. RECREATION STANDARDS In 1983, the NRPA has published the Recreation, Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines. These standards have been widely accepted and used for many years. In 1996, the NRPA developed new guidelines based on the systems approach to facility planning. This approach is based on level of service (LOS) and the recognition that the residents of each community should be given the right to determine the size and use of land set aside for parks and recreation facilities. The new process requires use of a complex formula, and therefore many municipalities use a combination of the 1983 and 1996 standards when determining open space need. Both sets of standards mainly apply to recreational uses, rather than passive or natural open space (of which there is no standard minimum or maximum). The 1983 standard utilizes the population ratio method, or the number of acres of parkland per 1,000 people. The NRPA estimates that a total of 6.25 to 10.5 acres of municipally 51

66 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 8 owned and developed open space per 1,000 people is a useful guide. Generally speaking, the more densely populated an area is, the higher the ratio should be. Therefore a more developed Township like Springfield would apply a higher ratio than a rural municipality such as New Hanover Township. For the purposes of this plan, both the low and high ratios are used to create a range for evaluating existing conditions and to perhaps establish an acreage goal for the community. For example, the midpoint value of the recommended range may be a good target. Further, the NRPA recommends that the developed open space consist of a core system of parkland, distributed among mini parks (such as tot lots), neighborhood parks, and community parks. Each of these components are of a certain size, have a defined "service area" (Figure 34 shows a.25 and.5 mile service area for each public park), and provide for certain uses (active and/or passive). This division of acreage has been applied to the Township to determine if a particular need exists now or may develop in the future. Figure 33 shows the results of applying the NRPA standards. PARK TYPES As shown, Springfield's current total open space acreage falls at the low end of existing and future recommended ranges. Springfield should aim for the mid-range of these standards (about 164 total acres), which means the Township needs to provide up to 40 additional acres of recreational open space by This goal can be approached if the Township acquires much of the target public open space proposed in Chapter 10. EXISTING PARKS AND FACILITIES Springfield s parks can be placed into two main categories: community-level and neighborhoodlevel. Typical characteristics of community-level parks are large size (serving more than one neighborhood), a central location, a good range of facilities/amenities (creek and woodlands corridor, ballfields, playground equipment, etc.), and parking. Seven Township sites - Bysher Fields, Cisco Park, Flourtown Country Club, Hillcrest Pond, Laurel Figure 33 Minimum Recreational Open Space Needs Projected Population* Range From To From To From To Recommended Acreage** Community Neighborhood Total Existing Acreage Community Neighborhood Total Difference Community Neighborhood Total Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; MCPC; NRPA * Projected Population ** Recommended Acreage - Range per 1000 persons as follows: Community Level = acres; Neighborhood Level = acres Total = acres 52

67 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 8 Figure 34 Public Open Space Service Areas Montgomery County Planning Commission Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. MCPC 53

68 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 8 Figure 35 Recreational Open Space Categories Open Space Type Name Acreage Facilities Community Bysher Fields 10.5 Ballfields (5) Community Cisco Park, Hillcrest Pond 13.0 Soccer field; multi-use field; ballfield; fishing pond Community Flourtown Country Club 51.0 Golf course Community Laurel Beech Park 11.1 Tot lot; soccer field Community Sandy Run Park Pond (restricted) Community Veterans Park 6.0 Ballfields (3); refreshment stand Neighborhood Kingston Triangle 0.9 None Neighborhood Mermaid Park 8.0 Pond Neighborhood Oreland Ballfield 4.3 Ballfields (2); refreshment stand; basketball court Neighborhood Oreland Park 0.8 Basketball courts (2); swings; benches Neighborhood Wyndhill Playground 4.5 Tennis court; multi-use field; soccer field; tot lot Total Beech Park, Sandy Run Park, and Veterans Parkbelong in this category (see Figures 34 and 35). With nearly 106 acres of community level open space, Springfield is at the lower range of the NRPA standard. This indicates that the Township needs to pursue new open space that serves the entire Township. As is shown in chapter nine, this will be done by establishing a Township trail system and pursuing a few potential parkland sites. In fact, if the target sites are acquired, the Township will meet the mid-range standard for community open space. Neighborhood-level open space refers to smaller areas (less than five acres) that serve a particular area of the community (typically one neighborhood), a concentrated or limited population or specialized group such as elderly or tots, and provide for quiet, informal recreation as well as facilities for short term, frequent and active use. Good examples are playgrounds, tot lots, and pocket parks (small green space within a highly developed area), and they are most valuable in areas that are not conveniently served by larger sites because of distance or a natural or man-made barrier (hills, train tracks). The Township has five neighborhood-level sites that are generally well located to serve residents' needs (see Figures 34 and 35): Kingston Triangle, Mermaid Park, Oreland Ballfield, Oreland Park, and Wyndhill Playground. However, there is currently a deficit of neighborhood-level parks. The Township needs to acquire approximately 18 additional acres of neighborhood open space to meet the mid-range standard by PASSIVE OPEN SPACE As mentioned earlier, unlike active open space needs, there is no standard to determine how much acreage to devote to passive open space. Often, a determining factor is the location and extent of natural resources that are currently unprotected. As shown in Chapter 6, there are several such areas in the Township that should be permanently protected. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Figure 36 summarizes the results of applying specific recreational facility standards to Springfield and compares the results to the supply of existing Township facilities. It should be noted that some results shown as fractions are rounded up to a whole number; for example,.3 football fields means 1 football field should be provided. 54

69 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 8 As this comparision shows, the Township falls short of the recommended levels for all but three of the facilities. However, many of these facilities, such as playgrounds, tennis courts, and a running track, are provided to the township through the school district (see figure 36 below), with which the township has a very strong relationship. As a result, the Township need not try to meet all of these standards on its own, but rather should focus on several goals that can more realistically be accomplished, such as adding multipurpose fields, baseball and softball fields with facilities, and running/walking tracks and trails. The Park and Recreation Board is currently working on a Comprehensive Park and Recreation Plan for the Township that will address recreational needs in more detail. Figure 36 Recreational Facility Needs Standard Per 1,000 Pop Population 2025 Population* Permanently Protected Facilities 2025 Deficit Additional Facilities Provided in Temporary Open Space Areas Basketball Courts Tennis Courts Volleyball Courts Baseball/Softball Fields Field Hockey Fields Football Fields Soccer Fields Running Track (1/4 mile) Swimming Pools Playgrounds Picknicking Areas Multipurpose Fields Shuffleboard Courts Multipurpose Courts Nature Areas Golf Courses * Projected Source: U.S. Census Bureau, MCPC; NRPA 55

70 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 8 56

71 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 9 CHAPTER 9 EVALUATION OF COUNTY AND ABUTTING MUNICIPAL PLANS The preceding chapters investigate the resources, needs, and opportunities that exist within the municipal bounds of Springfield Township. With this information, recommendations can be made to effectively serve Springfield s residents. However, the land use decisions that the Township makes affect the larger region just as decisions made in neighboring municipalities affect Springfield. Therefore, this open space planning effort should not be performed in the vacuum of the municipal borders, but rather should consider surrounding planning efforts. This chapter compares the recommendations of this plan with those in the County comprehensive plan and the comprehensive, open space, and revitalization plans of abutting municipalities and counties. The intent is to prevent conflicts between plans and to encourage collaboration of efforts. By gaining an understanding of how Springfield's plan will fit into the larger open space and trail linkage picture, partners can optimize both the quantity and quality of future open space preservation and management. COMPARISON TO MONTGOMERY COUNTY LAND USE PLAN AND OPEN SPACE PLAN In 2001, Montgomery County began updating its Comprehensive Plan. Adopted in full in September 2005, this plan will help guide the growth of housing, transportation, economic development, and natural & cultural resource management through 2025 and beyond. Each of these factors could potentially bear great significance on open space needs and opportunities in Springfield. Within this plan is the Vision of the County in 57

72 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER This Vision sets up four issues as the highest priority for action: Controlling sprawl Controlling traffic congestion Preserving open space/natural areas Revitalizing older boroughs and townships Springfield's Open Space Plan addresses many of these issues by setting a future course for wise land use, increasing linkages and accessibility, clustering and diversifying growth, and preserving open space. The draft version of the adopted Vision Plan Plan lists 48 goals that describe and expand upon the vision of the County in Several of these goals parallel those in this Open Space Plan, adding strength to the recommendations set forth here. Vision Plan Support Smart Growth and Preservation Efforts both Regionally and Locally Implement Plans Effectively and Cooperatively Land Use Direct Development to Designated Growth Areas Enhance Older Developed Areas Encourage Sound Land Use Planning and Design Preserve and Create Community Identity and a Sense of Place Open Space, Natural Features, and Cultural Resources Preserve Large Interconnected Areas of Significant Open Space Protect and Manage Wetlands, Streams, Steep Slopes, Woodlands, and Natural Habitats Create a Greenway System along Rivers, Creeks, and Other Sensitive Natural and Historic Features Develop a Countywide Network of Interconnected Trails Provide Park Facilities to Meet the Public's Recreation Needs Protect Scenic Roads, Vistas, and Viewsheds Protect Historic Resources and Cultural Landscapes Water Resources Effectively Manage Flooding Create Attractive Stormwater Facilities that Control Flooding, Recharge Groundwater, and Improve Water Quality At a site-specific level, the County Comprehensive plan identifies several open space areas worthy of protection in Springfield Township. They include the Sandy Run and Wissahickon Greenways; several properties eligible for and listed on the National Historic Register; scenic roads (Manor Road, Willow Grove Avenue, and Montgomery Avenue); proposed open space; and county trails (Cresheim Trail and the Wissahickon Trail). As outlined in this plan, Springfield also considers these areas significant resources and will act to preserve, protect, and enhance them using acquisition and non-acquisition methods. RELATION TO PLANS OF ABUTTING MUNICIPALITIES Four townships and the City of Philadelphia abut Springfield Township (Abington only shares a very small border with Springfield and was not consulted for this plan). The current zoning map, open space policies and other pertinent information of each township are summarized below. Adjacent, yet incompatible, land uses may result in conflicts while potential linkages could lead to cooperative partnerships between municipal neighbors. Based on the Montgomery County Open Space Program in 1993, the townships developed Open Space Plans. Over the years since these plans were adopted, many projects have been implemented, including the acquisition and preservation of land and implementation of trails. In addition, over this ten-year period, the needs of the communities have changed. It is therefore vital that Springfield keeps abreast of the continually evolving planning efforts of its neighbors and the county. 58

73 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 9 WHITEMARSH TOWNSHIP Whitemarsh Township lies to the west of Springfield, sharing a border measuring approximately 5.75 miles. Whitemarsh contains many acres of public open space that is either adjacent or quite near to Springfield Township, including portions of Fort Washington State Park, the Wissahickon Trail, Whitemarsh Valley Country Club, the Ace Golf Club, and Erdenheim Farms. Whitemarsh is developing a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan. As of October 2005, the plan was in its visioning stage, with completion of the plan expected in Spring Currently, open space issues of interest to both municipalities include creation of a connector to the Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail at Fort Washington State Park, the extension of the Green Ribbon Trail through Springfield along Stenton Avenue, and the preservation of Erdenheim Farms. Sandy Run Creek is also a major open space connection between the two Townships, and implementation of the Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan, described in Chapter 1, is important to both townships. In addition, green infrastructure improvements mentioned in the Flourtown-Erdenheim Vision Plan, which encompasses areas along Bethlehem Pike in both Whitemarsh and Springfield, are also priorities in the municipalities open space plans. Throughout the open space planning process, members of the Springfield Township Open Space Committee have attended several of Whitemarsh s open space meetings, and a members of Whitemarsh s committee gave presentations to Springfield s committee regarding their open space goals and planning process. UPPER DUBLIN TOWNSHIP To the north of Springfield lies Upper Dublin Township, sharing an approximately 1.6 mile border roughly along Pennsylvania Avenue. Upper Dublin was also in the process of developing its open space plan at the time of this plan s publication. The township extended an invitation to Springfield to participate in their open space planning process. Sandy Run Creek is the main open space connection between the Townships, and implementation of the Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan is also important to these two municipalities. In addition, Springfield has worked with Upper Dublin on the Pennsylvania Avenue Enhancement Plan headed by the East Oreland Neighbors Association. In the near future, Pennsylvania Avenue will be reconnected at the 309 interchange. This will provide an additional opportunity to work with Upper Dublin in improve this gateway. CHELTENHAM TOWNSHIP Cheltenham Township lies to the east of Springfield, and shares a nearly 2-mile border along Cheltenham Avenue and through several residential neighborhoods. Cheltenham s draft 2005 Open Space Plan identifies the Cresheim trail (a Philadelphia Electric Company utility corridor in the Laverock Neighborhood) as a potential open space corridor. This corridor extends into Springfield north along route 309 and south between Cheltenham Avenue and Stenton Avenue. Implementation of this trail would connect Philadelphia to Whitemarsh via Springfield and Cheltenham. In October 2004 the Foundation of the Rotary Club of Chestnut Hill has submitted an application for funds for a feasibility study to DCNR for this trail. Springfield, Cheltenham, and Whitemarsh Townships all provided letters of support as part of the application. CITY OF PHILADELPHIA FAIRMOUNT PARK SYSTEM Consisting of 77 parks in 12 park complexes, the Fairmount Park system incorporates 9,204 acres and offers a variety of experiences including trails, gardens, woodlands, rivers and streams, day camps, ball fields and golf courses, picnic areas and playgrounds, historic homes, and environmental, cultural and history centers. Springfield residents regularly access many of these facilities, and in fact Springfield is within the 59

74 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 9 direct quarter and half-mile service areas of portions of this park system. Portions of the park itself border Springfield in the panhandle area, and is a heavily used regional resource. The Fairmount Park Commission released its latest Strategic Plan, A Bridge to the Future, in July, The plan lays out more than 75 individual strategies for transforming and revitalizing the Park system. The Park Commission s mission is to: Preserve, protect, and maintain the open space, street trees, natural and cultural resources of Philadelphia s parks for the recreation and enjoyment of residents and visitors; Educate the public on the environment, history, and use of the Fairmount Park system; Promote, celebrate, and enhance the uniqueness and value of the Fairmount park system and its economic impact to the City, region and state. Planned improvements to the park system will benefit residents of Springfield and other municipalities in Montgomery County, as well as residents of the City of Philadelphia. The Township s plan will complement Fairmount Park by preserving additional open space along the Wissahickon creek and connecting it to Township open space through the Cresheim Trail. PHILADELPHIA RECREATION DEPARTMENT In addition to the Fairmount Park system which mainly consists of passive, self-directed recreation, the Department of Recreation provides active re creation with emphasis on programmed activities and facilities. Springfield residents also have access to facilities managed by this group, particularly the Water Tower Recreational Center at Hartwell and Ardleigh in the Chestnut Hill section of the City. PHILADELPHIA WATER DEPARTMENT The Philadelphia Water Department is involved in the Schuylkill River Source Water Protection Partnership (SWAP), which is a public-private initiative designed to explore and understand the environmental challenges to the Schuylkill River watershed as a means to identify its existing and potential sources of pollution to water supplies. In 2002, SWAP utilized a grant from the PA Department of Environmental Protection to conduct a source water assessment survey of the Schuylkill River watershed, a 130 mile stretch of river encompassing 2,000 square miles of area. Information gathered through a variety of ways, including river water sampling and monitoring, sanitary surveys, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools, on-site inspections and stakeholder interviews, were used to determine and prioritize sources of pollution and potential solutions. The Schuylkill Action Network (SAN) is developing a Source Water Protection Plan based on this information to restore and protect the watershed as a regional drinking water source, promote stewardship and education, transfer the experience and lessons learned to other communities, and enhance intergovernmental communication and coordination. OPPORTUNITIES FOR REGIONAL OR MULTIMUNICIPAL COOPERATION A number of avenues exist for cooperation with neighboring municipalities. These include: Planned trail connections with Whitemarsh and Cheltenham Townships. Planned greenway connections with Upper Dublin township. Springfield is already involved in multi-municipal plans with Upper Dublin Township (Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan and the Pennsylvania Avenue Improvement Plan) and Whitemarsh Township (Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan and the Flourtown-Erdenheim Vision Plan). The municipality plans to continue this cooperation, and has included recommendations from these two planning efforts in this Open Space plan. 60

75 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 10 RECOMMENDATIONS After completing a community profile, establishing goals and objectives, analyzing existing protected land and potentially vulnerable resources, considering opportunities to link open space, evaluating growth areas, examining open space and recreation needs, and examining the open space plans of abutting municipalities, the Springfield Township Open Space Planning Committee has developed a set of recommendations to guide the future acquisition, development, and coordination of open space in the Township. These recommendations all play a role in realizing Springfield s vision, which is to preserve remaining open space, enhance existing recreation facilities and link these all together via trails to create a comprehensive and well-functioning open space system. This chapter discusses goal-related recommendations for projects, programs and policies, as well as special options available through the Green Fields/Green Towns program. GOAL: MAXIMIZE PERMANENT PRESER- VATION OF REMAINING OPEN SPACE Obtain Institutional Easements In order to maximize the permanent preservation of remaining open space, Springfield wishes to seek easements on large institutional properties such as the Carson Valley School and Mount St. Joseph s Academy. The Township would also like to look into establishing easements on the golf course properties including Whitemarsh Valley Country Club, Sandy Run Country Club, and North Hills Country Club. Currently, these properties, along with several others, are subject to the AAA zoning overlay. This overlay was created to provide an option for cluster residential development consisting of single family detached houses surrounded by open space (50% of the net developable tract area). It contains open space design elements consistent with the latest guidelines from the Natural Lands Trust. Easements on AAA-zoned parcels would increase the level of open space protection on these properties. 61

76 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Preserve Open Space on School Sites The Township will continue to foster the existing positive relationship with the School District and other educational institutions to address open space and recreation issues. The practice of obtaining the right of first refusal for abandoned school sites has been very successful in the past: Wyndhill Park, Bysher Fields, and Cisco Park were all acquired by the Township from the School District. Springfield will continue this policy in the future. Preserve Open Space on Golf Courses All four of the golf courses in the Township are within the AAA overlay zoning district described earlier, and therefore are afforded a measure of open space protection. In order to maximize permanent preservation of these golf courses, and to ensure that the municipally-owned Flourtown Country Club remains in open space use, the Township should actively support positive relationships with all golf courses. They should continue to protect these sites via ordinances as well as other means of preservation such as easements. Acquire Additional Open Space Additional open space is very desirable in Springfield Township. Highest priority areas for potential acquisition and/or open space development are the Piszek and Boorse properties in Oreland and various properties in the Panhandle (See Chapter 6). Other priorities include the Karr Tract, undeveloped parcels containing woodlands, steep slopes or prime agricultural soils, Carson Valley and Mount St. Joseph s Schools, and sensitive portions of Erdenheim farms should they become available. The Township would also like to protect portions of the private golf courses through acquisition or other means whenever possible (see above). Uphold Low-Intensity Development Policy in the Panhandle In areas of the panhandle that are under development pressure, low-intensity and/or clustered uses should be encouraged. This can be accomplished through: Supporting the Land Use portion of Springfield s current Comprehensive Plan; Maintaining a dialogue with community members and developers to create a balance between development and open space preservation; and Urging the Planning Commission to consider height, buffers, and impervious coverage when reviewing developments in this area. Encourage Creative Site Design Ensuring that the Planning Commission keeps the concept of encouraging creative site design that preserves contiguous open space in mind when reviewing site plans will also help to permanently preserve remaining open space. The significant environmental benefits of maintaining contiguous open space should be stressed as part of this effort. Provide Open Space Preservation Information In order to assist residents in permanently preserving open space on privately owned property, the Township should create a program that accomplishes the following: Provide information on the Township website including links to organizations that are involved with land preservation and other open space issues; Provide printed educational materials identifying various methods of land preservation, including information concerning landscape design and appropriate plant species; and Stress the tax benefits of permanently preserving private land. Spread the Word The Township should hold an Open Space Kickoff event to gather input, promote the open space plan and disseminate information. This will increase the likelihood that recommendations contained in the plan will be implemented. Protect Farmland The diversity of Montgomery County s economy has made it a desirable place in which to live and work. The result is growth in both population and land development. While it is a reflection of economic strength, this development has a heavy 62

77 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 impact on the land and the natural features found on it. Farmland is often seen as very desirable for development. Because of this, the County has seen a great deal of its farmland sold for development or taken out of production. This represents the loss of a productive resource, which cannot be replaced. However, the farming economy in Montgomery County has historically been, and still is, strong and visible. There is much active farmland, as well as agricultural businesses which process farm products, or sell products & services to farmers. The dynamic population of the Delaware Valley provides opportunities for farming to thrive. Conventional farms continue to produce commodities like feed corn, wheat, and beef, while newer types of farming have a significant place in the county as well. A Montgomery County resident can find projects like organic vegetables, nursery stock, buffalo meat, apples, and more right within the County s borders. The County s Farmland Preservation Program and the Green Fields/Green Towns Program are opportunities to preserve farmland by placing it in agricultural security areas and purchasing conservation easements from interested landowners. The program focuses on the following objectives: Encourage a long-term commitment to agriculture. Protect normal farming operations. Conserve viable agricultural lands. Purchase agricultural conservation easements. The protection of viable agricultural lands by acquiring easements strengthens farming operations in the county while providing benefits such as lowering property taxes for everyone, providing jobs, promoting local tourism, assisting the national trade balance through exports, providing fresh locally-produced food, retaining tranquil scenery, contributing to the nation s food supply, protecting ground water recharge areas, and improving wildlife habitats. Springfield s Farmland Although the majority of Springfield Township is developed, it actually contains nearly 170 acres of active farmland! This includes the acre Bloomfield Farm at Morris Arboretum, about 30 acres of farmland at Carson Valley School, the Dixon Horse Farm (54.28 acres) and the Boorse Horse Farm (14.41 acres). These farm areas are a great asset to the Township and should be protected as part of the Township s overall goal of protecting open space. Agricultural Security Area (ASA) There is currently interest in establishing a local ASA in Plymouth, Whitemarsh, and Springfield Townships. In order to enter the program, owners of at least 500 acres of active farmland must apply and be accepted. This farmland does not have to be contiguous. Once a district is established, property owners may start receiving the many benefits listed above. If Springfield Township and the individual land owners are interested in this program, a farm evaluation defining and evaluating potential farmland to be preserved must be based on the following criteria: Size of the farm Historic qualities Scenic qualities Farm product sales Vulnerability Adjacency/proximity to other farms Adjacency/proximity to other preserved lands Unique value Viability of farming operation (current & future) Other considerations Act 319 preferential status EQIP program State and County program eligibility Conservation Plan Nutrient Management Plan Public access GOAL: MAXIMIZE OPEN SPACE ON EXISTING ABANDONED AND UNDERUTILIZED PROPERTIES In order to maximize permanent preservation of 63

78 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Figure 37 Buildings to Consider for Acquisition GOAL: PRESERVE NATURAL FEATURES Protect Sandy Run Greenway Ubol!Dbs Dpsqpsbujpo $+ $+ As prescribed by the Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan, the Sandy Run Greenway should be protected via easements and/or buffer requirements. QFDP! Cvjmejoh Establish Stream Buffer Criteria The Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance should establish requirements for protecting stream buffers to help preserve natural aquatic features. Upgrade Stormwater Management Criteria BU'U Upxfs $+ All zoning and township ordinances should be reviewed with the goal of establishing more appropriate stormwater management standards for new and existing developments. Preserve Woodland and Natural Features Public Open Space $+ Properties to be Acquired The Township should encourage creative site design that preserves contiguous stands of trees, particularly old growth/mature trees. Teeth should be added to existing ordinances that require filing of a natural features conservation plan for site plans as part of the subdivision and land development process. remaining open space, properties containing abandoned, unused, or derelict buildings can be acquired and demolished under the Green Fields/ Green Towns program to create open space, such as the following: PECO Building at Roesch Avenue in Oreland: This derelict building is located along a possible trail link and is adjacent to other green space. Tank Car Corporation at Walnut Avenue in Oreland: This building is abandoned, unused and derelict, and the property could serve as a link to Sandy Run Park. AT&T Tower Building on Southampton Avenue in Wyndmoor: Removal of this abandoned structure could expand and create an additional entrance to the adjacent Veterans Park. Promote Contiguous Open Space in Subdivisions The subdivision and land development ordinance should be revised to require that new buildings be situated in a manner that preserves contiguous open space, existing mature trees, steep slopes, and other natural features. Investigate Floodplain Restoration The restoration of developed floodplains to their natural state is an effective way to reduce the cycle of flood induced property damage that impacts several areas within the County. Reforestation is a particularly effective way to do this. Several locations in the township experience severe flooding during heavy storms. Three of these are located within the 100-year floodplain. They are 64

79 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Figure 38 Floodplain Restoration XJOETPS!SE CFUIMFIFN!QJLF UFSNJOBM!BWF BVDIZ!SE Ijmmdsftu!Qpoe NPOUHPNFSZ!BWF rage and parking areas flood on a routine basis. Flood losses have reached the hundreds of thousands of dollars and disrupts the regular school schedule. Demolition of the bus garage will restore the floodplain and create additional park space at the adjacent Cisco Park. Demolition of this facility is contingent on finding an alternate location for the bus garage. While this newly-created open space would primarily be used by residents of Springfield Township, it would be available to all residents of Montgomery County. CSPPLTJEF!SE HPSEPO!SE Paper Mill Run Djtdp!Qbsl SFTU!BWF STORMWATER MANAGEMENT In addition to Floodplain Restoration, Springfield has been carrying out a number of activities to reduce flooding and manage stormwater. Following a severe flood in 1996, the Township conducted a township-wide stormwater management study. The study took into account the density and level of development of the community, and the fact that most of the community was built prior to the requirement of stormwater management practices. The study recommended the installation of stormwater detention basins wherever possible. A series of detention basins have been built by the township, including those within the Sandy Run at the Flourtown Shopping Center, on the former PECO property along Bethlehem Pike, and at the Penn Weldy Apartment complex. Springfield has also made modifications to existing basins to increase storage capacity. In addition, the basins at Shepherd s Pond, Susan Circle, the PADOT 309 project, and other private developments have been oversized at the behest of the township. A floodplain at work along the Wissahickon on the Morris Arboretum's Bloomfield Farm, Northwestern Avenue, 11/28/04. the Hemlock Road area along Sunnybrook Creek; the Longfield Road area within the St. Joseph s Run floodplain; and the Montgomery Avenue area along the Paper Mill Run near Auchy Road. Homes are sited within the first two areas, which would make it excessively difficult to restore the floodplains there. However, the third area is free of homes, and is the current site of the Springfield Township School District bus garage (see Figure 38). The bus ga- In addition to the floodplain restrictions in the zoning code, Springfield has instituted an ordinance requiring any building project that increases impervious coverage by 200 square feet or more to install some form of underground detention system. Annually, the township clears the streams of debris and makes sure that the waterways are clear of obstructions. They also actively enforce regulations prohibiting dumping of leaves and other yard waste in streams. The township has not encouraged buyouts as a mitigation alternative, Instead, they have provided residents with information regarding flood-proof doors and windows, and other structural alternatives. 65

80 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Maintain and Improve Waterbodies A holistic approach should be taken to preserve Springfield s streams and ponds and protect them from stormwater runoff which carries excessive contaminants and sediment. In particular, the need for recurring dredging operations should be minimized, especially at Hillcrest Pond. Research should be conducted to find ways to improve water flow into the ponds to minimize such operations, and to minimize stormwater runoff and improve the quality of water in our streams.. Investigate Rehabilitation Methods for Environmental Enhancement The channelized portion of the Paper Mill Run between Cisco Pond and Bethlehem Pike is in need of restoration. The use of bioengineered stabilization may be appropriate at this location (see Figure 41). GOAL: ENHANCE THE TOWNSHIP S NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Focus on Trees Trees and other forms of landscaping are an important part of green infrastructure, and provide environmental benefits, save municipalities money, help provide a sense of community, and enhance real estate values. Each year, 10,000 trees in a given municipality typically store 500 tons of carbon dioxide, remove 50 tones of pollutants, and reduce stormwater runoff by nearly 10 million gallons, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service. Trees minimize heat islands, thus reducing residential and commercial annual airconditioning usage by up to 30 percent, as well as winter heating usage and costs by percent (USDA). Trees also save municipalities money: for example, a town with 40% tree cover can reap $21 million in air quality benefits and over $1 billion in stormwater benefits each year. Springfield s tree cover is currently between 20% and 30%, according to Treevitalize s Tree Cover Map. Trees give neighborhoods, town centers, and entire communities their own identity and a sense of place. Tree-lined streets can do more to beautify a town than any other single element. Shaded sidewalks encourage people to leave their homes, offices, and cars and walk, socialize, and play, strengthening their connection to the community. Finally, trees enhance real estate values. In fact, large specimen trees can add 10 percent or more to property values, not only because they are beautiful, but also because they demonstrably reduce energy usage and air-conditioning and heating costs.* Promote Tree Planting Springfield promotes the planting of trees on public and private property to increase canopy cover, aid in stormwater management, and add to the beauty of the Township. Support The Shade Tree Commission The Springfield Township Shade Tree Commission promotes the beautification of public spaces and encourages good planting and landscaping in private spaces. The commission is responsible for coordinating an annual tree clean up day along Bethlehem Pike in Flourtown and Erdenheim to celebrate Arbor Day. Trees are pruned and fertilized before a fresh layer of mulch is added. The commission recently designated the White Oak (Quercus alba) as the official tree of Springfield Township. The Oreland Shopping Center would benefit from adequate tree cover. *Cutler, John E. The Urban Forest Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow? Urban Land, April 2005 p

81 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 The Shade Tree Commission should be reenergized in an effort to enhance the Township s natural environment. The Township supports the effort to inventory existing plans and create new plans to identify trees in decline and establish a proactive program for rejuvenating the tree population. Complete Public Tree Inventory A tree inventory has not been completed at this time. Open Space funds could be utilized to assist Figure 39 Tree Planting Priorities and Environmental Enhancement Projects H E C the Shade Tree Commission in completing such an inventory. Preserve Corridors of Mature, Healthy Trees The results of the tree inventory should be used to: Prioritize efforts to fund the purchase of new street trees; Encourage strategies that prevent tree diseases; and Encourage the prompt removal of diseased trees and facilitate their replacement. Prioritize Tree Planting Activities Future street tree plantings are identified in Figure 39. Priority has been given to those projects that are likely to generate the greatest public impact, both visually and economically. High priority areas are located along primary commercial districts, usually retail in nature. Medium priority has been assigned to secondary commercial districts characterized by more industrial uses. Lower priority is assigned to residential streets because they are less traveled. Tree planting could also be focused on vulnerable natural features such as steep slopes, riparian corridors, and floodplains. The following high priority areas are generally lacking in trees: B D F A - Flourtown and Erdenheim Commercial Districts along Bethlehem Pike. Diboofm!Sftupsbujpo!Tjuf Map Location Key Goal Priority A Bethlehem Pike Revitalize/Enhance High B Bruce/Allison Roads Revitalize/Enhance High C Willow Grove Avenue Revitalize/Enhance High D Montgomery/Roesch Avenues Revitalize/Enhance Medium Queen Street, E Mermaid Lane, Ivy Hill Revitalize/Enhance Medium Road F Historic Wyndmoor Enhance Low G Pennsylvania Avenue Revitalize/Enhance Medium G B, D - Oreland Shopping and Industrial Districts along Bruce Road, Allison Road, Montgomery Avenue, and Roesch Avenue. C, E - Wyndmoor Shopping and Industrial Districts along Willow Grove Avenue, Queen Street, Mermaid Lane, and Ivy Hill Road (see proposal from the Wyndmoor Civic Association dated July 27, 2005 for further details). F - Historic Wyndmoor from Flourtown Avenue to Stenton Avenue and Evergreen Avenue to Mermaid Lane (see proposal from the Wyndmoor Civic Association dated July 27, 2005 for further details). G - Pennsylvania Avenue from Lynn Avenue to the Upper Dublin Township border. 67

82 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Maintain Natural Resource Preservation and Landscaping Expertise on the Planning Commission The Board of Commissioners should ensure that at least one member with expertise regarding buffering and landscaping always be a member of the Planning Commission. Support FEEA s Bethlehem Pike Vision Plan This plan aims to enhance the Township's natural environment and recommends street tree planting programs to meet this goal. The Township should support and aid in the implementation of this plan whenever possible. Promote Morris Arboretum s Programs The Arboretum offers a number of excellent classes to the public involving landscape design and horticulture. In an effort to encourage private landscaping and beautification efforts, these programs should be promoted and supported by providing print and web information to residents. Support the Creation of an Environmental Action Committee Such a committee would review land development proposals and advise the Township on issues related to the natural environment including watersheds, soils, woodlands, and floodplains. It would help to emphasize the importance of protecting Springfield s natural resources. GOAL: CREATE A COORDINATED OPEN SPACE NETWORK Create Trail Network The linkages identified in Chapter 7 should be implemented to link existing internal (Township) and external open space. Emphasize Connection to County Trails The development of an interconnected trail and pathway system in Montgomery County will enhance pedestrian and cyclist mobility and provide increased recreation opportunities. Many trails and pathways are proposed in the County s vision plan, and it is important to connect to, complete or expand this system at every opportunity. Springfield Township proposes the following trails (see Figure 40): A. Wissahickon Trail Link This portion of the Wissahickon Trail lies within the Springfield Panhandle adjacent to the Whitemarsh Valley Country Club and the Morris Arboretum. This is a vital link in the Countywide Trail System establishing a connection between portions of the Wissahickon Valley in Montgomery County to the Fairmount Park system in Philadelphia. This trail would consist of pedestrian and bicycle paths along the south side of the creek. Scheduled to open in 2005, design for this trail is currently under way. B. Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail Connector The Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail snakes along the western bank of the Wissahickon Creek in Whitemarsh Township. A portion of the trail located in Fort Washington State Park comes within yards of Springfield, and the Township would like to link to this trail via an existing abandoned railroad trestle located north of West Mill Road. C. Cresheim Trail This trail is proposed to connect Philadelphia s Fairmount Park with the Laverock Neighborhood in Cheltenham Township and ultimately Whitemarsh Township via Springfield. It would utilize the PECO corridor east of and parallel to Willow Grove Ave. Springfield is interested in expanding this trail further to connect to the Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail in Whitemarsh Township as the Wissahickon Blue Ribbon Trail Connector listed above, which is routed along the 309 corridor and an abandoned rail right-of-way. Coordinate Open Space Groups There are many groups in and around Springfield Township involved in open space planning implementation. The Township should coordinate with these groups, including, but not limited to: 68

83 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Figure 40 County Trail Connections Xjttbijdlpo! Hsffo!Sjccpo! Dpoofdups Dsftifjn! Usbjm Xjttbijdlpo! Hsffo!Sjccpo! Mjol Local Connectors to County Trails Future County Trails Existing Regional Trail MCPC Montgomery County Planning Commission 0 1,600 3,200 6,400 Feet Montgomery County Courthouse - Planning Commission PO Box 311 Norristown PA (p) (f) This map is based on 2000 ortho photography and official sources. Property lines were compiled from individual block maps from the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals, with no verification from the deed. This map is not meant to be used as a legal definition of properties or for engineering purposes. 0 1,100 2,200 4,400 6,600 8,800 Feet 69

84 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Erdenheim Civic Association Flourtown Erdenheim Enhancement Association (FEEA) Friends of Historic Bethlehem Pike Friends of Hillcrest Pond Friends of Mermaid Pond Friends of The Panhandle Friends of The Wissahickon Parks and Recreation Department Sandy Run Coalition Shade Tree Commission GOAL: PROTECT SCENIC AND HIS- TORIC RESOURCES The preservation of our local heritage is important in maintaining the quality of life in Springfield Township. Local heritage basically consists of the historic buildings, landmarks, and landscapes that provide a link to a community s past and thereby make a valuable contribution to its current educational, cultural, and social environment. While it can be difficult to define exactly what makes something historic, historic areas can generally be thought of as buildings and sites that are worth saving. Preserve Heritage Resources Springfield Neighbors Association Wyndmoor Civic Association GOAL: MEET RECREATION NEEDS Complete Recommended Park Improvements Specific improvements to many township parks are identified in Figure 41. Identify Additional Recreation and Open Space Needs The Township should encourage community groups to informally or formally survey residents concerning their open space and recreation needs and report this information to the Planning Commission, the Open Space Committee, and/or the Park and Recreation Department. Support the Park and Recreation Plan The Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan will contain specific information regarding maintenance and programming of open space and recreational areas. This plan supports that effort. Monitor Recreation Impact Fee In order to meet the Township s open space needs, the park and recreation impact fee that has been levied to help obtain new park land should be monitored to ensure that it keeps pace with the cost of maintaining, improving and acquiring property. Under the Green Fields/Green Towns Program Springfield has the option for acquisition and limited stabilization of heritage resources. A heritage resource property primarily includes the land that provides an appropriate setting for a historic building. Throughout the open space planning process, we have identified several heritage resources that are worth saving (see Figure 42). They are as follows: A. Scheetz/Boorse Property,10 Camp Hill Road The Scheetz property, now more commonly known as the Boorse property, became eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in It is an 18th century milling property deemed significant in the local industrial history of the area and representative of the local vernacular building styles of the area and period. For the majority of the 20th century, the property was used as a horse farm. The property contained at one time a house, a paper mill/dwelling, a springhouse, a barn, sheds, a stable, and a former detached kitchen/slave quarters as well as an associated mill race. The house is a good example of a stone and stucco Georgian residence, and belonged to a prominent landowner. Along with the house, the mill/dwelling is also of interest. These structures are located adjacent to the Sandy Run Greenway, and could be utilized in conjunction with a new trail in this area. While it might not be feasible to refurbish 70

85 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Figure 41 Proposed Park and Recreation Improvements Map Key Park Acreage Use Improvement Needed Underutilized Re-orient fields for senior league baseball and A Bysher Fields 10.5 Active Yes multi-purpose play B Cisco Park 13.0 Active/ Pave walking path; Dredge pond; Construct No Passive restrooms Flourtown Country Create Gateway Entrances; Install landscape C 51.0 Active Yes Club islands; Replace swimming pools D Laurel Beech Park 6.0 Active Construct walking path; Construct restrooms No E Mermaid Park 8.0 Passive Construct walking path Yes F Oreland Park 0.8 Active Create Village Green; Replace playground equipment; Rehabilitiate basketball courts No G Sandy Run Park 14.2 Passive Implement Master Plan to permit public access Yes H Veterans Park 6.0 Active Implement Master Plan to create additional multi-purpose fields and walking path Yes I Wyndhill Park 4.5 Active Re-grade playing fields; Construct parking lot Yes H G D B E J I F C 71

86 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Figure 42 Heritage Resource Conservation Tdiffu{0Cppstf Qspqfsuz Qj{tfl!Qspqfsuz in 1913 and opened in 1917 as the Carson College for Orphaned Girls. It was conceived by Robert N. Carson, who willed a portion of his land to develop a rural children s village for poor, white orphan girls, and Albert W. Kelsey, who won the competition to design the facility. While much has changed since its opening, Carson Valley School has remained dedicated to serving its original purpose to serve children in need. While there are no immediate plans for Carson Valley School to cease operations, if the property were ever to be sold, Springfield would be interested in protecting both the open space and the structures. C. Erdenheim Farms, Stenton Avenue Dbstpo!Wbmmfz Tdippm Fsefoifjn Gbsnt Located on Stenton Avenue in both Springfield and Whitemarsh Townships, this bucolic farm owned by Mr. Fitz Eugene Dixon is an asset to both communities. This working farm provides rural vistas and remains a reminder of the area s farming past. Portions of this property are already protected, and various groups are working to protect any remaining acreage. Springfield is interested in supporting this effort. D. First William Penn Charter Buildings, Northwestern Ave & Ridge Pike Gjstu!Xjmmjbn!Qfoo Dibsufs!Cvjmejoht these structures to living condition, it may be possible to retain portions of the structures for public use. The Boorse property is currently under consideration for redevelopment, and the township would need to either seek an easement or attempt a fee-simple purchase of the land surrounding the structures or the entire property. B. Carson Valley School, 1419 Bethlehem Pike This tudor-style village on 104 acres was built Currently a residence, this 1,629 square foot colonial residence is situated on approximately one-half acres of land. The residence and several outbuildings are presumed to have been built prior to the 1800 s. E. Piszek Property, Pennsylvania Avenue Edward J. Piszek was a Polish-American industrialist and philanthropist with several claims to fame. He was a co-founder of Mrs. Paul s frozen foods and a generous supporter of worthwhile Polish causes, including the establishment of a Polish Little League baseball. His residence was the Emlen House, a historic mansion that served as George Washington s Headquarters during the revolutionary war. Of the parcels that make up the estate, three are located entirely in Springfield Township and include almost 31 acres of undeveloped property. The two parcels containing the Emlen House, which was built by George Emlen, a Philadelphia Quaker, as his summer 72

87 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 house around1745, are located in both Springfield and Upper Dublin Townships. With the passing of Mr. Piszek in 2004, the future of the Piszek Estate is uncertain. This report strongly supports preserving the open space, viewshed, and/or historic nature of this property. Record History of Significant Properties Scheetz/Boorse House A goal of the open space plan is to protect scenic and historic resources. When an actual building or site cannot be preserved, the history of culturally significant structures and their landscapes should be recorded for prosperity. A list of such properties should be created and maintained. Preserve Views Views of natural features and open space areas, particularly of the Carson Valley School, the Dixon Farm, and the Wharton Sinkler Tract should be preserved. Façade easements should be obtained where appropriate. Encourage Preservation of Historic Structures Scheetz/Boorse Paper Mill and Dwelling Creative site development that preserves views and historic structures should include the practice of maintaining historic elements (or remnants thereof) in the open space areas of developed properties to recall the property s past history. As a first step toward historic preservation, the Township is currently in the process of drafting a Historic Demolition Ordinance that would require more scrutiny of plans to demolish potentially historic structures. This report strongly supports those efforts. GREEN FIELDS/GREEN TOWNS PROGRAM OPTIONS Carson Valley School In a departure from the prior emphasis on land acquisition, the 2003 Green Fields/Green Towns program recognizes that certain municipalities have large non-acquisition needs. Alternative means of preservation are now eligible for funding through the various grant options described in this chapter, including Green Infrastructure, Heritage Resource Conservation, County Trail Connections, Floodplain Restoration, and Farmland Preservation. 73

88 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE Under the 2003 Green Fields/Green Towns Program, communities with limited opportunities to purchase large vacant tracts for open space have the opportunity to improve their green infrastructure. This green infrastructure may include the creation of safe, usable open space, recreation areas, or public spaces through the demolition of dilapidated property or the restoration of older industrial sites into parks, plazas, trails, and natural areas. Tree planting and landscaping as well as improving existing open space and recreation areas also is included in this category. Detailed descriptions of many recommendations that fall into this category were included earlier in this chapter. REVITALIZATION Three main objectives that fall under the goal to enhance the Township s natural environment are to require adequate landscaping throughout the Figure 43 Proposed Gateways, Street Trees and Plazas Village Street Task Flourtown Bethlehem Pike Gateways, Street Trees, Plaza Flourtown E. Mill Road Gateway, Street Trees Erdenheim Bethlehem Pike Gateways, Street Trees Oreland Bruce Road Gateway, Street Trees Oreland Allison Road Street Trees, Plaza/Town Green Oreland Montgomery Avenue Street Trees, Sidewalks Oreland Pennsylvania Avenue Gateway, Street Trees, Plaza Wyndmoor Willow Grove Avenue Gateways, Street Trees, Plaza " h " h h h " hh h " h h h h " Plaza h h Primary Gateway Secondary Gateway Areas Lacking Street Trees 74

89 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 township, plant street trees, and create gateways to enhance the entrances to the township. In order to meet these objectives, the Township will design gateway entrances, install street trees, and create public plazas/village greens within the Flourtown, Erdenheim, Oreland, and Wyndmoor commercial districts (see Figure 43), and plant street trees along adjacent residential streets. The gateway improvements on Bethlehem Pike and E. Mill Road have also been proposed in the Flourtown/Erdenheim Enhancement Association s Vision Plan, and are currently in the process of receiving a grant for their implementation. If for some reason that process is not completed, the Township would like to find additional funding sources for those particular projects. PARK IMPROVEMENTS Providing additional recreation facilities and completing other planned improvements for existing parks, as well as supporting the recommendations of the Township s Comprehensive Park and Recreation Plan will help achieve the goal of meeting the Township s open space needs. This can be accomplished by implementing various park upgrades and enhancements to improve recreation facilities and address recreation deficiencies (see Figure 38). These improvements would help to make existing recreational areas safe, accessible, and more useable. ADDITIONAL OPTIONAL ELEMENTS In addition to the Green Infrastructure option, Springfield also plans to take advantage of funding available for Floodplain Restoration, Heritage Resource Protection, County Trail Connections, and Farmland Preservation as described earlier in this chapter. To view all geographically-based recommendations, see figure

90 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 10 Figure 44 Recommendations At A Glance 76

91 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 11 IMPLEMENTATION BACKGROUND Implementation is perhaps the most important part of any plan. Having identified and examined the open space issues important to the Township, a timeframe for implementation is established here to guide Springfield toward achieving its goals. In essence, this chapter is Springfield s action plan. In the near term, implementation principally involves securing funds from Springfield s funding allocation under the County Open Space Program, as well as from other sources, for highest priority projects. This would occur over the next three to five years ( ). It also means taking other, non-acquisition actions for open space preservation and recreation facility planning and development. Long term priorities will build upon these earlier efforts, and will be implemented within the next five to ten years ( ). IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX Springfield s top priorities for implementation involve creating trails, open space education, floodplain restoration, increasing tree canopy, and obtaining easements on unprotected resources and institutional properties. Figure 45 lists each recommendation described in detail in Chapter 10 along with goals and objectives achieved, method of implementation, responsible party, potential funding source, and priority. Following this list is a summary of preservation methods and funding sources that can be used to implement the recommendations. 77

92 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Figure 45 Implementation Matrix Recommendations Implementation Method Responsible Party Potential Funding Source Priority Identify Potential Funding Opportunities and Priorities Secure a combination of private and public funding sources Maximize Permanent Preservation of Remaining Open Space Administration OSC, TWP Various Highest Contine to encourage permanent preservation of open space on large institutional properties such as the Carson Valley School and Mt. St. Joseph's Academy sites. Seek easements to protect open space on large institutional properties Easement TWP MCOS, DCNR Highest Develop relationship with private educational institutions Policy TWP, SP, OSC N/A Highest Secure right of first refusal for abandoned school sites. Right of First Refusal, Policy TWP N/A Highest Acquire/protect additional unprotected resources including the Karr Tract, undeveloped parcels Acquisition, Easements SPC, TWP DCNR Long-Term Keep Flourtown Country Club in open space use and encourage other golf courses to remain as open space. Encourage zoning legislation that protects open space and the environment. Policy SPC N/A Highest Actively support positive relationship with golf courses Policy SPC, TWP N/A Highest Seek easements to protect open space on golf courses Easement SPC, TWP DCNR Long-Term Acquire portions of the Township's private golf courses, if available Acquisition, Easement TWP DCNR Long-Term Continue to encourage creative site design that preserves contiguous open space. Ensure that the Planning Commission encourages creative site design that preserves contiguous open space Stress the significant environmental benefits of maintaining contiguous open space Continue to support the Land Use Plan in Springfield's Comprehensive Plan Urge the Planning Commission to consider height, buffers, and impervious coverage when reviewing developments in the panhandle Acquire/protect highest priority unprotected resources including Piszek, Boorse, and panhandle properties (see Chapter 6) Maintain a balance between development and open space preservation in the pan handle Policy SPC N/A Highest Education, Policy SPC N/A Highest Keep low-intensity and/or clustered uses throughout much of the panhandle area. Policy SPC N/A Highest Policy SPC N/A Highest Acquisition, Easements TWP DCNR Highest Policy SPC, OSC N/A Highest 78

93 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Figure 45 Implementation Matrix Continued... Recommendations Implementation Method Responsible Party Assist residents in permanently preserving open space on privately-owned property. Potential Funding Source Priority Provide educational materials to the public that identify Administration, various methods of land preservation Education OSC, TWP TWP Highest Provide links on the Township website to organizations Administration, that are involved with land preservation and open Education space issues TWP N/A Highest Stress the tax benfits of permanently preserving private Administration, OSC, TWP, land Education, Policy SPC N/A Highest Create small green oases in the most intensely developed areas to buffer incompatible land uses and provide visual relief. Plant Street Trees (See Chapter 10 for phasing) Purchase & Plant Trees STC MCOS Highest Create Plazas (See chapter 10 for phasing) Design, Construction FEEA N/A High Maximize Open Space on Existing Abandoned and Underutilized Properties Seek to acquire blighted buildings and abandoned properties (or portions thereof) that cannot be used for other purposes to add to the open space inventory. Acquire Peco Building Fee Simple Purchase, Easement TWP MCOS High Acquire Tank Car Corporation Building Fee Simple Purchase, Easement TWP MCOS Long-Term Acquire AT&T Tower Building Fee Simple Purchase, Easement TWP MCOS Long-Term Preserve Natural Features Preserve aquatic features wherever possible. Acquire the Springfield Township School District Bus Garage to restore floodplain Research ways to improve water flow & water quality into ponds and streams, and to minimize dredging Land Exchange, Fee Simple Purchase TWP MCOS, TWP Highest Study E, TWP N/A Highest Establish stream buffer criteria in the SLDO Policy SPC N/A High Investigate restoration of Paper Mill Run sluiceway Study, Construction TWP, E MCOS Long-Term Preserve woodlands, particulary those in the panhandle area. Acquire/protect highest priority unprotected resources including Piszek, Boorse, and panhandle properties (see Chapter 6) Acquire/protect additional unprotected resources including the Karr Tract, undeveloped parcels containing sensitive natural features, and institutional properties (see Chapter 6) Ensure that the Planning Commission encourages creative site design that preserves contiguous open space Acquisition, Easements TWP DCNR Highest Acquisition, Easements SPC, TWP DCNR Long-Term Policy SPC N/A Highest 79

94 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Figure 45 Implementation Matrix Continued... Recommendations Implementation Method Responsible Party Potential Funding Source Priority Encourage creative site design that limits disturbance to natural features. Require the filing of a natural features conservation plan in the SLDO Add teeth to existing ordinances to limit disturbance of natural features Enhance the Township's Natural Environment Policy TWP, SPC N/A Highest Policy SPC N/A Highest Require adequate buffering and landscaping throughout the township as part of the land development process. Ensure that a member of the Planning Commission Policy SPC, BC N/A Highest possesses landscaping/horticultural expertise Reactivate street tree planting programs. Assist Shade Tree Commission in locating existing and creating new plans Planning OSC, TWP, STC N/A Highest Support FEEA's Bethlehem Pike Vision Plan Policy ALL N/A Highest Develop new shade tree planting program for public areas. Identify trees in decline and proactively replace them Survey STC N/A Highest Execute a Public Tree Inventory Study STC N/A Long-Term Encourage private landscaping and beautification efforts. Provide information concerning landscape design and appropriate plant species to communities Promote programs offered by Morris Arboretum to encourage private landscaping efforts Create gateways to enhance the entrances to the township. Support the installation of gateways in Flourtown (Bethlehem Pike, E. Mill Rd) and Erdenheim (Bethlehem Pike) Design and install primary gateways in Erdenheim (Paper Mill Rd), Oreland (Bruce Rd & Pennsylvania Ave), and Wyndmoor (Will Grove Ave) Design and install secondary gateways along Bethlehem Pike (5) Create a Coordinated Open Space Network Administration, Education Administration, Education, Policy OSC, TWP TWP Highest OSC, TWP, SPC N/A Highest Policy, Construction TWP, FEEA N/A Highest Design, Construction FEEA N/A High Design, Construction FEEA N/A High Connect Township open space wherever practical. Acquire easements, design, and install short-term priority trails (Green Ribbon Trail Connector, Cresheim Trail, Wissahickon Ave Connector, Sandy Run Creek) Acquire easements, design, and install long-term priority trails (Oreland Connector, Manor Creek, North Hill/Orland Trail, Wissahickon Creek) Acquisition, Design, Construction Design, Acquisition, Construction MCPC, TWP MCOS, RTCA Highest SPC, MCPC MCOS Long-Term 80

95 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Figure 45 Implementation Matrix Continued... Recommendations Acquire easements, design, and install short-term priority trails Formalize communication with various groups regarding open space Implementation Method Establish open space linkages with neighboring communities and the county. Acquisition, Design, Construction Coordinate groups invovled in Open Space planning and implementation Meet Recreation Needs Provide additional neighborhood-level open space. Responsible Party Potential Funding Source Priority MCPC, TWP MCOS, RTCA Highest Administration, Policy OSC N/A Highest Obtain new parkland through SLDO process and Park & Rec impact fees Acquisition SPC, PRB N/A Highest Provide a network of pedestrian and bicycle corridors and linkages within and between greenways and open space parcels. Acquire easements, design, and install short-term Acquisition, Design, priority trails Construction MCPC, TWP MCOS, RTCA Highest Acquire easements, design, and install long-term Design, Acquisition, priority trails Construction SPC, MCPC MCOS Long-Term Provide additional recreation facilities and complete other planned improvements for existing parks. Implement proposed improvments at Cisco Park, Oreland Park, Sandy Run Park, and Veterans Park (see Chapter 10) Implement proposed improvments at Bysher Fields, Flourtown Country Club, Laurel Beech Park, Mermaid Park, and Wyndhill Park Various PRB MCOS Highest Various TWP, PRB MCOS High Invite residents to identify long term needs and bring them to the township's attention. Hold an "Open Space Kickoff" event Meeting OSC N/A Highest Encourage community park and recreation surveys Policy, Survey TWP, PRB N/A Highest Support and coordinate with the developing Park and Recreation Plan. Support and coordinate with developing Park and Recreation planning efforts Administration, Policy SPC, PRB, OSC N/A Highest Protect Scenic and Historic Resources Preserve views of natural features and open space areas. Preserve views of natural features and open space areas through facade easements where possible Easements SPC, TWP N/A Highest 81

96 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Figure 45 Implementation Matrix Continued... Recommendations Implementation Method Responsible Party Potential Funding Source Priority Preserve corridors of mature, healthy street trees. Continually seek funding for street tree planting Administration TWP,STC N/A Highest Encourage strategies that prevent tree diseases Education, Policy STC N/A Highest Encourage prompt removal of diseased trees and facilitate their replacement Encourage creative development that preserves views and historic structures. Acquire or facilitate preservation of aspects of the Scheetz/Boorse property Continue efforts to protect Erdenheim Farms Policy STC N/A Highest Acquisition, Easements, Historic Documentation Policy, Easements,Acquisition TWP, SPC, SHS TWP, various groups PHMC, PF DCNR Highest Highest Maintain historic elements in open space areas of new developments Policy SPC, SHS N/A Highest Protect Pizsek properties and encourage a trail and/or greenway along Sandy Run Easements, Acquisition SPC MCOS Highest Acquire/protect highest priority unprotected resources including Piszek, Boorse, and panhandle properties Acquisition, Easements TWP DCNR Highest (see Chapter 6) Research and protect First William Penn Charter buildings Easements, Acquisition SPC, SHS N/A Highest Protect Carson Valley School in case of ownership change Easement, Acquisition TWP N/A Highest Record history of Tank Car Corporation and other culturally significant properties Administration, Study TWP, SHS PHMC, PF Long-Term Support and Enhance the Goals of the Sandy Run Creek Watershed Conservation Plan and Other Existing and Future Watershed Plans Implement the action items identified in these plans whenever possible. Protect Sandy Run Greenway via easements or buffer requirements Easements, Policy SPC MCOS Highest Key: Funding Sources DCNR PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources MCOS Montgomery County Open Space Funds: Green Fields/Green Towns Grant MCRP Montgomery County Community Revitalization Program PF Private funds PHMC PA Historical & Museum Commission TWP Township Funds 82

97 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 RESPONSIBILITY For each proposed action, primary responsibility is proposed among the following municipal groups and consultants: Board of Commissioners (BC) Engineer (E) Flourtown Erdenheim Enhancement Association (FEEA) Montgomery County Planning Commission (MCPC) Open Space Committee (OSC) Park and Recreation Board (PRB) Solicitor (S) Springfield Historical Society (SHS) Springfield Planning Commission (SPC) Shade Tree Commission (STC) Springfield Township (TWP) PRIORITY CATEGORIES Highest Priority projects should be implemented within the next three years ( ). High Priority projects, programs and policies should begin in three to five years ( ), and Long Term Priority projects, programs and policies should be implemented within five to ten years ( ). PRESERVATION METHODS There are a number of ways a municipality can obtain land for open space. An overview of these alternatives is provided here to serve as a guide for the Township s future open space acquisition efforts. In the long term, all of these could conceivably be used by the Township, although at any given time one or more may be more appropriate than others for acquiring a specific site. More generally, however, they indicate that the Township can be flexible in its approach to implementing the plan s goals. FEE SIMPLE ACQUISITION This option is the most direct way to acquire open space because it simply involves negotiating with a private landowner to arrive at a mutually acceptable purchase price and then completing the deal. The municipality then has free and clear title to the property, or fee simple ownership. Because it is usually a straightforward transaction, municipalities often prefer this approach, particularly for establishing a community park. INSTALLMENT BUYING With this method, the municipality agrees to purchase a set number of acres annually until the full parcel is acquired. In return, the full site is removed from the tax rolls when the initial agreement is signed. The owner may choose to remain on his land until it is completely sold and paid for.. The advantage of this method is that benefits accrue to both the municipality and the landowner. For a municipality with limited funds, installment buying spreads the cost over a period of time. The landowner in the meantime is relieved of real property responsibilities with the agreement is signed. LONG TERM LEASE WITH OPTION TO BUY This involves the negotiation of a lease price with a property owner and includes conditions for use and possible purchase of the property. The primary advantage is that it permits flexibility; if the property is not needed in the future for open space, it returns to the owner. PURCHASE AND LEASE-BACK Purchase and lease-back results in buying land and leasing it back to the owner in accordance with agreed-upon policies for the use and protection of the land. Its primary advantage is that it permits purchase of property before prices rise or before the property is lost to development. It also permits flexibility because once the land is purchased it can be used for another public purpose, sold, or exchanged for another parcel. PURCHASE AND RESALE This method is similar to purchase and lease-back, except that the land is purchased with the sole intent of reselling it under conditions or restrictive covenants. If the land is acquired at a low cost, the resulting profits help repay initial purchase 83

98 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 costs and can be used to acquire additional land. Another advantage is that after resale, the municipality is relieved of ownership and maintenance responsibilities and the land is taxable. LEASING This is a popular, relatively inexpensive way to acquire open space, especially if the land is unlikely to be developed (for example, reservoirs and utility land). The term of the lease usually ranges form 20 to 50 years; at a minimum, a period should be established that is long enough to finance anticipated capital improvements. The owner of the leased land prescribes conditions and terms under which the land can be used and the lessee is required to carry liability insurance covering personal injury and property damage. EASEMENTS Easements are a successful way to save public funds, yet receive open space benefits. An easement is a limited right over land owned by another person. Legally, a person has the right to use his property subject to zoning laws, subdivision regulation, etc; however, he may sell his right to use the land in specific ways. The costs of easements vary with the type acquired. Easements can be affirmative or negative. Affirmative easements grant limited rights to the public to use the land for public purposes, such as hiking, fishing, or riding. Such easements can be used selectively to obtain public use of private lands for trails and access to water-based recreational facilities. In contrast, negative easements do not allow public access, but restrict the owner in his use of the property. For example, a scenic easement requires the owner to preserve the openness or natural beauty of a site; this type of easement can be effective in maintaining municipality's visually attractive roads. Use of easements is generally more limited and complicated than land acquisition, but they can limit or prevent destruction and premature development of scenic areas. They should be selectively used and tailored to fit the requirements of each particular situation. EMINENT DOMAIN Eminent domain is the condemnation of land for a public use by due process of law. It must involve the determination of a fair market value for the property and a clear definition of the public purposes for which it is being condemned. Before exercising the right of eminent domain, a municipality should study the necessity of obtaining the particular site and the feasibility of acquiring it by other acquisition methods. Only if all other methods fail and the property is essential to an open space system should eminent domain be considered. LAND TRUSTS AND CONSERVANCIES Land trusts and conservancies are private, nonprofit tax exempt trusts, usually organized by a citizen supported, non-profit agency. Their funds can be used to provide open space and to preserve natural resources such as stream valleys. Administration and management of the land are the responsibility of the service agency. Private non-profits have an advantage in that they can often move faster to acquire property than can a government agency. Frequently a public-private partnership is formed whereby the private agency acquires land and then resells it to a government agency at a later date. As noted previously, there are a number of existing conservation groups what will work with private landowners to conserve their land. However, such situations may or may not include provisions for public access. Because of this, a municipality should work closely with these organizations and landowners where public access is a goal. In this way, conservancies can function as an alternative method of acquiring open space. LAND EXCHANGES This method involves the trading of land between one owner and another to obtain mutual advantages. An arrangement can be made between landowners to exchange land that serves their interests. VOLUNTARY AGREEMENTS Voluntary agreements can be established between government agencies and owners of agricultural lands, industrial holdings, and utility lands for vari- 84

99 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 ous purposes. They are strictly voluntary, with permission to use the land for public enjoyment in clearly specified ways. For example, a utility company might permit trail use of a power line right-of-way. PURCHASE OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS If the municipality is only interested in protecting land or designated features of a property without gaining the right for public access, then this method of acquisition of partial interests rather than full fee title in land is available. In essence, a municipality could preserve significant natural, scenic, historic, or cultural resources by purchasing a landowner s right to develop the property or otherwise alter the character of the features that are deemed worthy of protection. RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL AND PURCHASE OPTION These methods involve establishing an agreement which specifies that the land may be acquired by the municipality at a future date. A right of first refusal provides the municipality with the option to match an offered purchase price within a specified time period should a landowner receive a legitimate offer to sell. A purchase option is simply a right that the municipality holds to purchase the land by a specified date at a specified price. Both rights of first refusal and purchase option can be either donated or sold to the municipality. LIFE OR TERM ESTATES This technique involves the acquisition of land with certain restrictions attached to the deed. A municipality may be better able to negotiate the purchase of property if certain interests in the land are reserved for the benefit of the landowner. For example, a municipality could purchase land with all rights of ownership conveyed except the right to occupy a house or a portion of the full property for a specified term (usually 25 years) or until the death of the landowner. DONATIONS AND BARGAIN SALES These methods of acquisition involve obtaining land at less than its full market value. Receiving donations of the full value of land is the least expensive way for a municipality to obtain land and can, in some instances, be a wise approach for a landowner to take to directly benefit from tax incentives and the shelter effects of charitable deductions. If a full donation of land is not possible or if the landowner has an immediate need for cash through sale, then a partial donation and bargain sale might be a prudent alternative. By selling land at a price that is less than its full value, a landowner can still receive tax benefits based on the difference between the fair market value of the land and its actual sale price. The primary benefit to these techniques is that a municipality acquires land at a lower cost while the seller obtains tax deductions. FUNDING SOURCES In addition to the funds allocated through the County Open Space Program, Springfield is eligible for funds from a variety of sources including various grants and donations (of cash, materials, and/or labor). GREEN FIELD/GREEN TOWN OPEN SPACE GRANTS In 2003, a referendum to fund open space and green infrastructure projects was passed in Montgomery County. This funding was distributed to municipalities, private non-profit conservation organizations and the county to preserve more open space and enhance the livability of existing communities throughout the County. Springfield is eligible to receive a total of $1,397,301 for open space planning and implementation. This grant requires matching funds equal to twenty percent of project costs from the township. The County grants come with several conditions. The most important condition is that any land purchased with grant money must be permanently preserved as open space or for active recreation. Another condition is that Springfield must complete and adopt the Open Space Plan. This plan must be approved by the County s Open Space Board before grant money can be disbursed. MONTGOMERY COUNTY COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION PROGRAM (MCRP) Initiated in 2000, this program is intended to cre- 85

100 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 ate a strategic, economic development program that will strengthen and stabilize the county s older communities for the long term. It helps these communities become more vibrant, livable, and attractive places. Funding from this competitive program is used for projects consistent with the Township s Community Revitalization Plan. PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES (DCNR) DCNR manages a variety of grant and technical assistance programs concerned with a variety of issues. DCNR annually awards about $30 million in planning, acquisition, and development grants for parks, recreation, rivers conservation, trails, greenways, and protection of open space and critical natural areas. Most DCNR grants require a 50/50 match. DCNR also provides pre-application workshops to assist applicants in the preparation of their application forms. A priority goal of the these programs is to develop and sustain partnerships with communities, nonprofits, and other organizations for recreation and conservation projects and purposes. With this in mind, the Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) was established. It is a combination of several funding sources and grant programs, including the Commonwealth s Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund (KEY 93, described below), the Environmental Stewardship and Watershed Protection Act (Growing Greener, also described below), Act 68 Snowmobile and ATV Trails Fund, the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the Recreational Trails component of the Transportation Equity Act for the Twenty-First Century (TEA-21). PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF EN- VIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (DEP) The Growing Greener program has funded efforts to clean up Pennsylvania s rivers and streams, reclaimed abandoned mines and toxic waste sites, invested in new alternative energy sources, preserved farmland and open space, and developed watershed restoration programs. Thus far, Growing Greener has generated nearly $1.50 in matching funds for the environment for every $1.00 in state money. As the Growing Greener program evolves, it will focus on brownfield redevelopment, farmland and open space preservation, water quality improvements, enhanced state and community parks, and an upgraded fish and wildlife infrastructure. Growing Greener II will accomplish these goals while making critical investments in community revitalization and the promotion of the use of clean energy. KEYSTONE RECREATION, PARK AND CONSERVATION FUND The Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund Act was signed into law in It directs a portion of the state s Real Estate Transfer Tax to the Keystone Fund, establishing a dedicated and permanent funding sources for recreation, parks, conservation, and other programming. Grants from this program require a minimum 50% match from the recipient municipality or nonprofit organization. As of 2002, $144 million had been granted to more than 2,100 projects. The demand on the Keystone Fund already outstrips resources by a 4 to 1 margin. PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (DCED) The mission DCED is To foster opportunities for businesses and communities to succeed and thrive in a global economy, thereby enabling Pennsylvanians to achieve a superior quality of life. Therefore there are several assistance and grant programs available to Pennsylvania municipalities. Often, local economic and community revitalization efforts are supported by the implementation of green infrastructure and open space plans. Below is a list of programs offered by DCED through which revitalization funds may flow to implement the recommendations described in this open space plan. Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) - Provides grant assistance and technical assistance to aid communities in their community and economic development efforts. Community Revitalization Program (CR) - Provides grant funds to support local initiatives that promote the stability of communities. 86

101 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Main Street Program - This program provides assistance for revitalization planning and projects. Elm Street Program - Grant funds for planning, technical assistance and physical improvements to residential and mixed use areas in proximity to central business districts. Industrial Sites Reuse Program - Grant and low-interest loan financing to perform environmental site assessment and remediation work at former industrial sites. PENNSYLVANIA HISTORICAL & MUSEUM COMMISSION (PHMC) Many communities value their historic resources and work to preserve them for future generations. These resources can then be integrated into the open space network and cultural amenities of that community to enhance local image and aesthetics. The PHMC offers several programs that aid municipalities in these efforts. Certified Local Government Grant Program- Provides funding for cultural resource surveys, national register nominations, technical and planning assistance, educational and interpretive programs, staffing and training, and pooling CLG grants and third party administration Keystone Historic Preservation Grant Program - Funding for preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation Pennsylvania History and Museum Grant Program - Funding under this program is designated to support a wide variety of museum, history, archives and historic preservation projects, as well as nonprofit organizations and local governments. There are 10 types of grants. PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (PENNDOT) SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL This category includes projects for bicyclists and pedestrians that permit safe passage for children to walk or bike to school. This includes activities that enhance the transportation system through the construction of new facilities or the improvement of existing facilities to make them more usable for pedestrians and bicyclists. Some examples of eligible activities include: sidewalk improvements, pedestrian/bicycle crossing improvements, bike lanes, traffic diversion improvements, offstreet bicycle and pedestrian facilities. In addition, this program may fund traffic calming measures to slow the speed of cars such as the following: curb extensions, bulb-outs, traffic circles, raised median islands, speed humps, textured or raised crosswalks. Funds cannot be used for bicycle and pedestrian facilities that are solely for recreational use. HOME TOWN STREETS This category includes a variety of streetscape improvements that are vital to reestablishing our downtown and commercial centers. These will include activities undertaken within a defined "downtown" area that collectively enhance that environment and promote positive interactions with people in the area. Projects may include sidewalk improvements, planters, benches, street lighting, pedestrian crossings, transit bus shelters, traffic calming, bicycle amenities, kiosks, community "gateway" plantings, signage and other visual elements. DELAWARE VALLEY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION (DVRPC) DVRPC s Transportation and Community Development Initiative program is intended to assist in reversing the trends of disinvestment and decline in many of the region's core cities and first generation suburbs by: Supporting local planning projects that will lead to more residential, employment or retail opportunities; Improving the overall character and quality of life within these communities to retain and attract business and residents, which will help to reduce the pressure for further sprawl and expansion into the growing suburbs; Enhancing and utilizing the existing transportation infrastructure capacity in these areas to reduce the demands on the region's transportation network; and 87

102 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN CHAPTER 11 Reducing congestion and improving the transportation system's efficiency. CONGESTION MITIGATION AND AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CMAQ) This program seeks transportation-related projects that can help the region reduce emissions from highway sources and meet National Clean Air Act standards. The program covers the DVRPC region of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties in Pennsylvania; and, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester and Mercer counties in New Jersey. TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (TE) Transportation Enhancements is a set-aside of Federal highway and transit funds, mandated by Congress in the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) for the funding of "nontraditional" projects designed to enhance the transportation experience, to mitigate the impacts of transportation facilities on communities and the environment, and to enhance community character through transportation-related improvements. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE RIVERS, TRAILS, AND CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The program offers technical assistance only to nonprofit organizations, community groups, and local or state government agencies. Rivers and Trails technical staff offers the following types of assistance for recreation and conservation projects: Building partnerships to achieve communityset goals Assessing resources Developing concept plans Engaging public participation Identifying potential sources of funding Creating public outreach Organizational development Providing conservation and recreation information PECO ENERGY GREEN REGION OPEN SPACE GRANT PROGRAM PECO Energy, a subsidiary of Exelon, is currently involved in several environmental partnerships including TreeVitalize, with DCNR, clean water preservation with The Nature Conservancy, and environmental education initiatives with the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education and Green Valleys Association. Green Region grants are available to municipalities in amounts up to $10,000. The grants can be used with other funding sources to cover a wide variety of planning and direct expenses associated with development and implementing open space programs, including consulting fees, surveys, environmental assessments, habitat improvement, and capital improvements for passive recreation. DONATIONS Springfield should encourage donations from individuals and groups to help pay for parkland acquisition, development, and tree planting. The donations may be cash, materials, or labor. The Township could organize special days during which local citizens and groups could gather to participate in implementing open space projects. CONCLUSION Springfield Township looks forward to adopting the 2005 Open Space Plan and implementing its recommendations. The Township believes that parks and open space contribute greatly to the quality of life of its residents, and that a Green Town is what Springfield strives to be. For more information, please visit the following websites: Montgomery County Green Fields/Green Towns Program greenfields2.htm Springfield Township Montgomery County Planning Commission 88

103 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN APPENDIX A APPENDIX A PUBLIC INPUT Public input is a vital part of any planning process, and Springfield s Open Space planning process was no exception. A total of 14 Open Space Committee meetings, advertised and open to the public, were held on a monthly basis between June 2004 and October Once a draft plan was developed, copies were distributed to all Township Committees, surrounding municipalities, and the school district for review and comment. This draft was also posted on the Montgomery County Planning Commission and Springfield Township websites. The plan was presented to the community at several different meetings, including a public meeting held as part of the July 2005 Board of Commissioners Meeting; the Montgomery County Open Space Board meeting on August 23, 2005; and an Open Space Open House for community members held at the Township Building on September 22, A draft plan was presented to the County Board in November 2005, and a final plan was submitted in December. A public hearing was held at the Township Building in January 2006, and the plan was adopted by the Board of Commissioners that same month. A news article about the plan graced the cover of July 15, 2005 s Springfield Sun, and an article appeared in the Sun concerning the initial planning grant on July 9, SUMMARY OF COMMENTS The following comments concerning various drafts of the 2005 Open Space Plan were received in writing. The plan has modified multiple times to address these issues. These comments and the Open Space Committee s responses to them are included below. SPRINGFIELD PLANNING COMMISSION We received comments from two members of the Planning Commission at their June 7, 2005 meeting. These comments were based on the first draft of the plan and are summarized below: Protected land maps are inconsistent. 89

104 SPRINGFIELD OPEN SPACE PLAN APPENDIX A Make planting trees on steep slopes, in riparian corridors, and on floodplains a priority. A map of tree cover by census tract should be included. This is addressed as a long-term priority to fulfill the objective of preserving woodlands. This will also be addressed by completing the recommended tree inventory. Chapters 10 and 11 are really hard to read. Adding an implementation matrix sorted by goal (in addition to the one sorted by priority), among other changes, would be helpful. Chapters 10 and 11 were completely reorganized, and the implementation matrix is now sorted by goal. The Township held a successful Open Space Open House to inform community members and receive their input. These maps were modified and are now consistent. Add Stenton Ave from Northwestern to Whitemarsh under scenic views. This area was added. Need to discuss more about how we are interacting with neighboring municipalities in Chapter 9. This section was updated and expanded. A goal to protect tree canopy should be added. This was added to objective B under Goal 4. Stormwater management is an important part of open space planning. Stricter stormwater management standards through ordinances should be added. This was added to objective D under Goal 4. The status of the demolition ordinance should be cleared up. This was addressed in Chapter 5. We should set a specific goal for passive open space (currently there are only goals for active recreation areas). An acreage goal was not set for passive open space, however it is the Township s desire to preserve as much passive open space as possible. Clarify the terms permanently protected and temporarily protected. Readers may assume land categorized as temporarily protected is preserved and does not require attention. These terms were replaced with permanent open space and temporary open space and their definitions were clarified. The plan seems disjointed, vague, opportunistic and reactive, not proactive and focused. A vision statement was added and several chapters were reorganized. The overriding goals of the plan are not present throughout the text. The goals should be related to public health & safety (stormwater management, exercise for community members, and wildlife preservation) and community values (family-oriented, quality of life, volunteer-based, support neighborhoods, relationship to region). A goal to manage stormwater was added. While the other ideas listed are important, the committee did not select them to be priority goals. Chapters 10 & 11 are difficult to read. It is hard to discern the relationship between projects, programs and policies. Chapter 10 seems to advocate just doing more of the same thing. Chapters 10 and 11 were reorganized and recommendations were clarified. OPEN SPACE OPEN HOUSE The following comments were received in writing at the Open Space Open House held on September 22, 2005 at the Springfield Township Build- 90